(Image source from: PTI)

The day following Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's criticism regarding the violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responded forcefully, labeling Yogi as "the largest Bhogi," and referenced the fatalities from the stampede at the Mahakumbh festival. During her address to a group of Imams, in the wake of the unrest in Bengal stemming from protests against the Waqf Amendment Act, she remarked, "Yogi boasts a lot, but he is the biggest materialist. Many lives were lost at Mahakumbh, and numerous individuals have been killed in encounters in Uttar Pradesh. Yogi prevents individuals from holding rallies. In Bengal, we enjoy a great deal of freedom."

In his response to the events in Murshidabad amid the protests against the Waqf Amendment Act, Yogi Adityanath declared that "Bengal is ablaze" while accusing its Chief Minister of remaining "quiet." He also asserted that "danda," or stick, is the "sole remedy for rioters." He stated, "Danda is the only solution for those causing riots. Clearly, Bengal is on fire while the Chief Minister chooses to stay silent. She mistakenly refers to rioters as 'peace ambassadors.' Those who respond only to violence cannot be swayed by words."

He further commented, "In the guise of secularism, they have granted immunity to rioters. The government has adopted a passive stance. Such chaos needs to be contained." In reaction to Ms. Banerjee's statements, UP BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi responded, "Yogiji's comments were directed at the rioters, which Ms. Banerjee found objectionable because she harbors these individuals. Yogi Adityanath has ensured Uttar Pradesh is free from riots. Her claims are unfounded, and she could benefit from adopting the Uttar Pradesh model."

Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Assembly, suggested that Yogi Adityanath should visit the state to engage with the populace. "I appreciate his stance against the disorder in Bengal. I also thank the NHRC and NCW for their attention to our state," he added.