MEA warns Kerala, West Bengal within 80 characters

The Centre reminded Kerala and West Bengal that managing foreign relations is its sole prerogative. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that states should not interfere in matters beyond their constitutional jurisdiction. This comes in response to Kerala appointing a secretary for external cooperation and West Bengal offering shelter to distressed people from Bangladesh.

According to Entry 10 of the Union List in the Constitution, foreign affairs are the sole prerogative of the Union Government. The BJP criticized Kerala’s move as unconstitutional. The MEA confirmed receiving communication from Dhaka regarding Mamata Banerjee’s statement on sheltering Bangladeshi refugees.

India stressed that the unrest in Bangladesh is an internal matter and expressed hope for a resolution. Despite positive relations, issues like the Teesta water sharing deal have caused tensions. Banerjee’s offer of shelter was seen as an attempt to connect with Bangladeshi protesters.