Mamata warns BJP leaders against carrying arms in processions

PURULIA (WB): Accusing 'some BJP leaders' of carrying arms in Ram Navami processions yesterday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee warned them of legal repercussions saying the law will take its course against such people.

"Some BJP leaders who do not know Bengali culture held processions with swords to create an atmosphere of fear (during Ram Navami) yesterday. But can anyone perform puja with a sword?" she said at a public meeting here.

"Lord Rama had worshipped Goddess Durga with flowers, not with swords. Rama did not resort to the riots to kill Ravana.

"If any political leader or worker participates in a procession with arms, law will take its own course. There will be no ABCD... All are equal," Banerjee said.

"Ram Navami puja is held at my own home. But I never make a show of it," she said.

The RSS and various right wing groups participated in Ram Navami processions across the state yesterday during which many people had been carrying weapons like swords.

"You have no right to carry weapons. What will happen if people belonging to other religions do the same thing tomorrow?" she asked.

Slamming the BJP, she said, "They don't perform worship. They only use religious slogans, put up saffron flags and incite violence."

Banerjee said the BJP leaders have no knowledge about the Bengal's culture. "There cannot be any work with divisive politics. One day you (BJP) will be wiped out of Bengal as well as out of the country."

She said since the people has put her in the chief minister's chair, she would work for the people of all castes, creed and religion.