By IANS,
Kolkata: Wishing that peace returns to riot-torn Assam, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday warned those who were trying to play politics over the influx of refugees into the state.
“They (refugees from Assam) are my brothers and sisters, it is our duty to give them shelter and provide them with food and other necessities. I strongly condemn and warn those who are trying to play politics at the cost of those who have taken refuge in Bengal,” Banerjee said at a railways’ function in Burdwan district.
Without naming any political party, Banerjee said her government will deal strongly with any attempt to create communal disharmony in the state.
“We have never supported riots or communal disharmony and we will not spare whoever will try to instigate communal unrest in the state,” thundered Banerjee.
She said the people from Assam can stay in Bengal so long as they wish and it was the duty of her government to take their care.
“I have instructed (North Bengal Development Minister) Gautam Deb to ensure that the refugees are provided adequate relief materials. I wish peace and normalcy returns to Assam but the people of Assam can stay here so long as they want,” added Banerjee.
A large number of people from violence-hit Assam have taken refuge in north Bengal after communal clashes in the state’s Bodo areas claimed 45 lives.
The opposition Left Front and the Trinamool Congress have been bickering over providing relief to the Assamese refugees.