Describing refugees from Assam as guests, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said her government would stand beside them.   

"They are more than our guests, our own people. They don't have shelter now. We all know their mental condition.They are the victim of circumstances, so let us all stand beside them," Banerjee said at Changmari refugee camp inAlipurduar district.   

She also made an appeal to local people to help the refugees in whatever way possible and asked officials to ensure that no one was inconvenienced. When asked by reporters whether the refugees do not want to return to their homes, she said, "They will decide. If they do not want it is their decision. If anyone wants to return,we'll make all the arrangements. They are our own people. More than guests. We have to take care of everything including their food. We want them to stay in peace."