Trinamool Congress Distances Itself from MLA's Controversial Babri Masjid Plan in West Bengal

BJP alleged that the ruling party's ecosystem was enabling such statements for electoral benefit.

Kolkata:

A significant controversy has erupted in election-bound West Bengal after TMC MLA Humayun Kabir announced plans to lay the foundation stone of a mosque modeled on Babri Masjid in Murshidabad district on December 6, prompting the Trinamool Congress to distance itself while the BJP alleged attempts to polarize voters.

Posters announcing the 'Babri Masjid' foundation event appeared across Beldanga this week, with many subsequently vandalized, creating tension in this communally sensitive district.

With December 6 marking 33 years since the demolition of the 16th-century Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the planned ceremony has heightened political tensions in minority-dominated Murshidabad district, which experienced clashes during protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Act earlier this year in April.

When speaking to PTI, Kabir remained defiant about his plans.

"Yes, I will lay the foundation stone of a masjid modeled on the Babri Masjid on December 6. This masjid will be much bigger and inspired by the original structure," he stated, adding, "This is my religious right and a demand of the local people."

He described the issue as "emotional" and insisted his plan was a "personal resolve" not connected to electoral calculations.

The Trinamool Congress quickly disassociated itself from the MLA's remarks, cautious of potential political repercussions in an election year.

TMC Chief Whip in West Bengal Assembly, Nirmal Ghosh, told PTI, "The party is not in touch with Humayun Kabir. His remarks or actions have nothing to do with the party. Whatever he is saying or doing, he is doing it in his personal capacity. The party does not support those and is looking into the matter." A senior party official indicated that disciplinary action against Kabir, who has been show-caused several times previously for indiscipline, would be initiated soon. Despite repeated confrontations, the party has not expelled him.

In recent months, Kabir has signaled an independent political direction, even suggesting the formation of a new organization.

The BJP alleged that the ruling party's ecosystem was facilitating such statements for electoral advantage.

State BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya said, "The TMC is pushing West Bengal towards chaos. Such announcements are meant only to provoke and polarize." The Congress, which maintains influence in Murshidabad, called for restraint.

This controversy has intensified concerns about increasing communal polarization ahead of the assembly elections, scheduled for April-May, particularly in districts with sensitive demographic balances.