Jalpaiguri, March 25 — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during her visit to St. Lucy Church in Chalsa, Jalpaiguri district, declared that no division should be created among people on religious lines. She emphasized that her government’s welfare schemes are meant for all communities, regardless of faith, and that humanity and brotherhood form the essence of every religion.
Banerjee attended prayers at the church, met the Bishop and priests, and participated in a cultural programme organized by the local Christian community. Addressing the gathering, she stressed the importance of unity and inclusiveness, urging people not to allow religion to become a source of division.
Her remarks come at a politically significant time, with Assembly elections approaching in West Bengal. Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts, where Christian voters hold influence, are seen as key battlegrounds. Banerjee’s outreach highlights her party’s secular positioning and commitment to minority communities.
“Every religion teaches love, humanity, and brotherhood. No one should try to divide people on religious lines,” Banerjee said, reiterating that her government’s schemes — from health to education and social welfare — are designed to benefit all sections of society equally.
The visit underscores the Trinamool Congress’s strategy to consolidate minority support in north Bengal’s tea garden belt, while also reinforcing a broader message of communal harmony. Banerjee’s statement is expected to resonate with diverse communities across the state, reinforcing her call for unity ahead of the polls.
