Mamata Criticizes RSS Leader for 'Real Independence' Comments
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Synopsis
Mamata Banerjee, the West Bengal Chief Minister, vehemently criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for labeling January 22, 2024, as India's true Independence Day, calling it an anti-national remark. She also condemned the attack on actor Saif Ali Khan, emphasizing the need for prompt action against such incidents.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee condemns RSS chief's remarks.
- Calls January 22, 2024, comment anti-national.
- Stresses the importance of August 15, 1947.
- Denounces attack on actor Saif Ali Khan.
- Advocates for swift action against threats.
Kolkata, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, vehemently criticized Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), on Thursday over his recent remarks labeling January 22, 2024—the date marking the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh—as the genuine 'Independence Day' for India.
“I am puzzled as to why he would make such a declaration. In my view, this is an anti-national statement. I denounce such comments and insist on their retraction,” the Chief Minister stated during a press interaction.
The Trinamool Congress leader further asserted that no political entity has the authority to misrepresent the history of the Indian freedom struggle.
“This trend is alarmingly perilous. Numerous segments of history have already been misrepresented. Certain aspects of the Indian Constitution have also undergone alterations. These latest remarks are entirely intolerable. The true Independence Day for India is August 15, 1947. That date represents the pride of India,” she emphasized.
During her conversation with reporters, she also labeled the assault on Padma Shri award-winning actor Saif Ali Khan as 'disturbing'.
“This incident is utterly shocking. I have already expressed my thoughts on social media. Saif’s mother, Sharmila Tagore, hails from the esteemed lineage of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. Earlier, similar death threats were directed at Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. Saif had not been far behind in this distressing list. The situation is highly alarming. I am unsure if the incident was orchestrated or not, but I can only stress that swift action is necessary,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Earlier on Thursday, Mamata Banerjee took to X to state: “It is very alarming to learn about the attack on prominent actor Saif Ali Khan. I wish him a quick recovery, trusting that justice will prevail and those responsible will face consequences. My thoughts and prayers are with Sharmila Di, Kareena Kapoor, and the entire family during this challenging period.”
