Mamata Banerjee's maiden speech at Oxford disrupted by protestors over RG Kar incident; she offers them chocolates

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivered her first-ever speech at an Oxford University institution on Thursday, highlighting her commitment to inclusivity while rejecting divisive politics. Addressing a packed auditorium at Kellogg College, she emphasised that governance must serve all communities equally.

“To maintain unity is very difficult, but to divide people takes only a moment,” Banerjee said. “When I am in the chair, I cannot divide society. I have to look after weaker sections and poor people. We have to work hard for them. At the same time, we have to work for all religions, castes, and creeds together.”

Speaking on Empowerment of Women in Bengal and its Success, Banerjee showcased state initiatives like Kanyashree and Lakshmir Bhandar, aimed at uplifting women and marginalised communities. However, the event took an unexpected turn when hecklers interrupted her with questions about the RG Kar rape-murder case from August 2024.


According to a TOI report, Banerjee responded with composure, telling one protester, “Love you, brother. If you want to do politics, go tell your party in my state. I will send chocolate to you and your ideology.” Later, she added, “Jealousy has no medicine. The only medicine is love. Hence, I promised them chocolate.”

She reiterated that the RG Kar case was under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), adding, “We have nothing to do here.” Attempts to derail her speech on investments in Bengal also surfaced, with some references to Tata Motors' departure from Singur. Banerjee swiftly pointed out ongoing Tata investments in the state.

Despite the disruptions, the audience overwhelmingly supported her, with Oxford’s pro vice-chancellor Jonathan Michie and Lord Karan Billimoria later apologising for the incident. The Chief Minister took it in stride, stating, “You have fulfilled your agenda. Now, I will come twice each year to Oxford. You gave me strength and inspiration.” Her remark was met with enthusiastic cheers.

Banerjee underscored Bengal’s diverse population of 11 crore people, including significant minority and tribal communities. “Our mission is to ensure there is no discrimination among students, women, farmers, and workers. Without humanity, this world cannot run, continue, or sustain,” TOI quoted her as saying.

(With inputs from TOI)