Mamata Banerjee Interrupted by Protesting Students at Oxford University Event
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Synopsis
During a speech at Oxford University, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee faced protests from students addressing post-poll violence. Despite the disruption, she maintained her composure and engaged with the protesters, ultimately concluding her speech successfully.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee faced protests while addressing Kellogg College.
- She maintained her composure despite interruptions.
- The audience applauded her dignified response.
- She emphasized political engagement in West Bengal.
- The incident highlighted her reputation in the international sphere.
London/Kolkata, March 28 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, was delivering a speech at Kellogg College, Oxford University in London on Thursday when a group of protesting students unexpectedly interrupted her. They aimed to disrupt her address and create a scene by raising topics related to post-poll violence and the RG Kar College and hospital financial scandal.
Despite the unexpected disruption, Chief Minister Banerjee remained composed and engaged with the protesters while upholding her decorum.
The audience was initially taken aback by the sudden protest, but they responded with applause for the Chief Minister's dignified handling of the situation.
Ultimately, CM Banerjee wrapped up her address smoothly. She was heard responding to the protesters with, "Tell your party to strengthen itself in our state (West Bengal) so they can compete with us."
This incident occurred during the Chief Minister's speech, which was attended by former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly.
Although the London visit included various industrial and trade discussions, the focal point was this speech at Kellogg College, where this unforeseen incident unfolded.
Political analysts noted that despite the brief disruption caused by a handful of protesters, the way Chief Minister Banerjee managed the situation while maintaining her composure abroad has further bolstered her reputation in the international political arena.
In the end, the protesters were compelled to exit the venue due to the collective response from the other attendees.
The Chief Minister was invited to speak on the social development of women, children, and marginalized groups. During her speech, she highlighted projects like 'Swasthya Saathi' and 'Kanyashree' from her state.
As she discussed the industrial landscape in West Bengal, the topic of investment from the Tatas' TCS company arose, prompting some audience members to hold up placards addressing the election and post-poll violence, as well as the RG tax scandal.
The protesters attempted to voice their concerns during her address.
However, the Chief Minister remained unfazed and addressed the protesters with a calm yet assertive tone from the outset. CM Banerjee responded, "You are welcoming me, thank you. I will treat you to sweets."
When the RG tax case was brought up, the Chief Minister replied, "Speak louder, I can't hear you. I assure you, I will listen to every word. This case is pending. The investigation is now in the hands of the Central government, not us."
She further stated, "Do not engage in politics here; this is not a political platform. Go to my state and engage with me politically."
The protesters also mentioned the incident at Jadavpur University. Addressing one of them as 'brother,' the Chief Minister urged, "Do not lie. I sympathize with you. But instead of turning this into a political platform, go to Bengal and tell your party to strengthen itself to challenge us."
The audience responded with loud applause to the Chief Minister's retorts.
Even as the protesters attempted to raise their voices, the Chief Minister remarked, "Do not disrespect your institution by insulting me. I am here as a representative of our country. Do not tarnish your country's image."
Eventually, the event's organizers and the other attendees united in their opposition to the protesters, compelling them to leave the hall.
Among the audience were many expatriate Indians and representatives from various countries who came to hear the Chief Minister's address.
Nonetheless, the event organizers expressed regret to the Chief Minister for the unexpected disruption.
In a calm manner, the Chief Minister stated, "You have motivated me to return here repeatedly. Remember, Didi does not fear anyone. Didi strides like a Royal Bengal Tiger. If you can catch me, then try!"
Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress posted on X: "She (Mamata Banerjee) remains unshaken. The more you heckle, the stronger she roars. @MamataOfficial is a Royal Bengal Tiger! #DidiAtOxford."
