Amidst rising global tensions, particularly the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called upon the Indian government to proactively engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and foster peace. Speaking in the state assembly on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Banerjee emphasized India's historical role in the non-aligned movement and its potential to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflicts.
Banerjee acknowledged that external affairs and diplomatic issues fall under the purview of the central government. However, expressing her concern as a citizen and a leader, she asserted that India should take a firm stand and play an important role in establishing peace. She highlighted that global conflicts not only cost human lives but also damage the environment, polluting the air and water and threatening human and ecological survival. She urged that the world be free from the pollution of war, so people can live in peace.
The Chief Minister recalled her past experience as part of a central delegation under then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, emphasizing the legacy India carries in international diplomacy. She appealed to the Indian government to take the lead in ending the war through diplomatic means, stating that she does not support war in any form as it brings environmental destruction and human suffering.
Banerjee's appeal comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, where recent exchanges between Iran and Israel have heightened concerns about regional stability. The situation has become even more volatile with the involvement of the United States, further underscoring the need for diplomatic intervention.
In addition to addressing international conflicts, Banerjee also raised concerns about internal matters, specifically criticizing the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for its failure to conduct regular dredging at its Maithon and Panchet dams. She accused the DVC of releasing excess water from the dams during the monsoon season without proper communication with the state, leading to flooding in the Ghatal sub-division of Paschim Medinipur district. She stated that if regular dredging had been undertaken, the dams could have held significantly more water.
Furthermore, Banerjee addressed recent disruptive behavior in the assembly, condemning the violence that resulted in injuries to marshals and security personnel. She met with the injured personnel and heard their accounts of the incident, expressing her disapproval of the actions that led to the injuries.
Banerjee's call for peace and diplomatic intervention reflects a broader concern about the impact of global conflicts on both humanity and the environment. By urging India to take a proactive role, she hopes to leverage the country's diplomatic experience and influence to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful resolutions.
