Mamata Banerjee Distances Herself from MLA's Babri Mosque Replica Proposal Amid Political Tensions in Bengal

Kolkata:

Sources have revealed that Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee is extremely displeased with party MLA Humayun Kabir's suggestion to construct a Babri masjid replica in Murshidabad. Both Banerjee and her party have reportedly distanced themselves from this mosque initiative, and this stance has been clearly conveyed to the MLA.

During a media briefing on Wednesday, Bengal minister Bratya Basu stated: "The party leadership is addressing the matter regarding MLA Humayun Kabir. The MLA frequently changes his positions. We anticipate his attendance at the Chief Minister's event in Baharampore tomorrow."

Banerjee is scheduled to conduct a rally in the India-Bangladesh border district of Murshidabad on Thursday to express opposition against the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of voter lists.

According to sources, the party has extended an invitation to Humayun Kabir, who represents the Bharatpur constituency, and he is expected to participate in the rally.

However, on the eve of this event, the MLA emphasized his intention to lay the foundation stone for the Babri Masjid replica in Murshidabad's Beldanga on December 6.

Sources indicate that Bengal Governor Ananda Bose has questioned the state government about why Humayun Kabir hasn't been arrested if his statements are creating law-and-order issues.

"Information I've received from field reports, intelligence agencies, and local community leaders suggests someone is deliberately attempting to transform Murshidabad into a center of controversy. This will not be permitted," the Governor declared.

The Governor emphasized that this extends beyond merely constructing a place of worship, adding that if communal sentiments are provoked, the state and its government "will not remain passive observers."

The administration in Murshidabad has already implemented high-security measures.

During her visit to Murshidabad on Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee conducted several meetings with administrative officials and district leaders, according to sources.

The MLA lacks the required police authorization for the December 6 event. Nevertheless, the administration remains vigilant, particularly given Humayun Kabir's refusal to specify the event's location.

A Trinamool Congress district leader described the MLA's "entire performance" as pressure tactics to secure an election ticket from Murshidabad's Rejinagar seat. He noted that while Humayun Kabir has previously pressured the party for his preferred constituency, the current situation presents greater challenges.