West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivered a powerful message of unity and inclusivity during her address at Kellogg College, University of Oxford, on March 27.

Speaking on “Social Development – Girl, Child and Women Empowerment in West Bengal,” the Trinamool Congress leader emphasized that her governance model leaves no room for discrimination, prioritizing the welfare of all communities.

Banerjee, addressing a global audience, invoked Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy: “Unity is our strength, and division leads to our fall.” She warned against divisive ideologies, asking, “Do you think the world can sustain such thinking?” Highlighting her role as a leader, she added, “When I am in the chair, I cannot divide society. I must uplift the weaker sections, the poor, and work for all religions, castes, and creeds together.”

With West Bengal’s 11 crore population—akin to a “big country”—Banerjee celebrated its diversity. “Over 33 percent are minorities—Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Nepalis, Gorkhas—6 percent are tribals, and 23 percent are Scheduled Castes. We celebrate all festivals together, without discrimination,” she said, painting a picture of harmony.

Her speech underscored a human-centric approach. “Our mission ensures no discrimination among students, women, farmers, or workers. Without humanity, this world cannot sustain itself—I firmly believe so,” she asserted.

Banerjee’s address, blending local pride with universal values, positioned her governance as a model of inclusive progress, resonating far beyond Oxford’s halls as she champions unity in a fractured world.