Murshidabad MLA Humayun Kabir found himself at the center of a political storm on Thursday after receiving news of his suspension from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) moments after entering the administrative meeting called by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
In his immediate reaction, the Bharatpur MLA declared that he would resign on Friday and launch a new political party in Murshidabad on December 22, announcing plans to field candidates in 135 seats in the upcoming elections. “I will fight against TMC, BJP—everyone,” he said.
The controversy stems from Kabir’s recent remarks on the Babri Masjid. He stated that a mosque of the same name would be constructed in Murshidabad, adding that its foundation stone would be laid on December 6. The comment triggered significant backlash, prompting TMC leadership to distance itself from him.
State minister and Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim said Kabir had been summoned three times, but his behaviour did not change, leading to the suspension. He accused Kabir of misleading people on behalf of the BJP, reminding that Kabir had once been a BJP candidate in 2019.
Hakim questioned Kabir’s insistence on the “Babri Masjid” name, stating he could have easily chosen a name honouring his own parents. He criticised the MLA’s “provocative” statements, adding, “We do not believe in the politics of division.”
The situation escalated further after Governor CV Anand Bose sent a letter to the state government on Wednesday ordering the immediate arrest of Humayun Kabir. He warned that if the state did not act, he would intervene directly, citing concerns of potential unrest following the Babri Masjid remark. TMC suspended Kabir within 24 hours of the Governor’s letter.
Kabir has repeatedly been in the headlines over the past few months for public criticism of his own party and clashes with district leadership. He had already hinted at forming a new party, and tensions rose further after he announced the December 6 Babri Masjid foundation ceremony in Murshidabad—an event that reportedly faced administrative obstacles.
With his suspension now official, all eyes are on December 22, when Kabir is expected to unveil his new political outfit.
Also Read: Mamata upset with MLA over Babri Mosque proposal: Sources
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