West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday launched a sharp attack on what she described as “communal forces”, accusing them of attempting to distort India’s constitutional values and spread disharmony for political gain.

Addressing a public gathering, Banerjee said her government would continue to defend religious harmony and uphold the spirit of inclusivity that forms the core of India’s democracy.

“We respect every religion, every community,” she said. “We stand against those who try to divide people. Protecting communal harmony is our constitutional duty, and we will not allow anyone to tamper with it.”

Her remarks came amid a political row triggered by a recent Rajya Sabha notification that, according to her interpretation, questioned the use of patriotic expressions like Vande Mataram. She accused her political opponents of creating unnecessary controversy to fuel polarisation.

“A few days ago, a Rajya Sabha circular claimed that one cannot say Vande Mataram,” Banerjee said. “Those communal forces, who play Holi with blood, must remember our history. When India achieved independence, Rabindranath Tagore sang Banglar Mati Banglar Jol, symbolising unity, not hatred.”

The Chief Minister claimed that attempts were being made to “rewrite patriotism” and weaponise nationalism for narrow political interests. She reiterated that Bengal will remain firm against such moves.

“We will always stand for peace. Bengal believes in unity, not division. No one can lecture us about patriotism,” she declared.