West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday objected to the use of lotus in the G-20 logo as India is set to host the global event. The summit will be held in Delhi on 9 and 10 September next year.
She said the controversy over the G20 logo was “not an issue” but she would not raise it as it may not be good for the country if the issue is discussed outside. The CM also argued that the Center could have chosen a national symbol other than the lotus for the logo of the summit, as the flower also represents a political party.
Congress pulled the center for the people
The Congress alleged that the central government used flowers in the G20 logo to promote the BJP. However, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh defended the decision by saying that the flower is part of the country’s cultural identity.
Before leaving for New Delhi, Banerjee told reporters at the city’s airport, “I have seen it (lotus logo) as well.
Since it is a matter related to our country, we (TMC) are not saying anything. If this issue is discussed outside, it is not a good sign for the country.”
She left for the national capital to attend a meeting convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the preparatory process for the G20 summit in 2023.
“It cannot be denied that the national flower is also the logo of a political party. Many other national symbols could have been used instead. Even if I do not raise this matter (in Delhi), others do Can.” Banerjee, who is also the TMC supremo, said.
“I have seen it but haven’t said much. It is not an issue. It is an important issue and they (Centre) should look into the matter,” he said. India has assumed the presidency of the G-20 group for one year.
A PMO release said the logo, which was unveiled last month, draws inspiration from the vibrant colors of the national flag.
It said, “It associates the planet Earth with the lotus, the national flower of India which signifies growth amidst challenges… Earth reflects India’s pro-planetary approach to life, which is in complete harmony with nature.” is in harmony.”
Banerjee took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for holding roadshows during the assembly elections in Gujarat and called him and the BJP “special” for not following rules laid down by the Election Commission.
On BJP’s claims of a ‘clean sweep’ in the Gujarat polls, he said if the Prime Minister held a rally on the day of the election, ‘the result was quite expected’.
“We – political parties have to follow the Election Commission’s rules. Roadshows by parties are banned on polling days. But they (Modi and BJP) are special…if the prime minister goes to rally on election day What do you expect…they may even get 100 out of 100. But is it fair?’
On his way to cast his vote at a polling booth in Ahmedabad in the second and final phase of Gujarat assembly elections, Modi on Monday reportedly held a mega roadshow.
About his visit to New Delhi, the Trinamool Congress supremo said a meeting with the Prime Minister “may not be possible”.
He said, ‘The (G-20) meeting on Monday will go on till night. On Tuesday morning I will go to Ajmer and Pushkar. On Wednesday I will meet TMC MPs and return to Kolkata. So, I think the meeting with the PM will not be possible this time.” he said.
(with PTI inputs)