Thu Dec 04 07:11:13 UTC 2025: News Article:

Trinamool Congress Suspends MLA Over Babri Masjid Replica Plan, Sparks Controversy in West Bengal

Kolkata, West Bengal – The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has suspended MLA Humayun Kabir after he announced plans to build a replica of the Babri Masjid in Murshidabad, West Bengal. The move has ignited a political firestorm, with accusations of divisive politics and potential communal tensions swirling.

Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim confirmed the suspension, stating that Kabir had been warned previously about his controversial statements. “We believe in secular theory,” Hakim said. “As per the decision of our party, we are suspending MLA Humayun Kabir.”

Kabir had declared his intention to lay the foundation stone for the replica on December 6, a date laden with significance as it marks the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition. Sources indicate Kabir plans to resign from the TMC on Friday and form his own party to proceed with the construction.

Hakim accused the BJP of using Kabir’s announcement to divide Bengal along religious lines. “Why December 6? Why did Kabir not choose another name? He can build a school or college in Murshidabad. We think this is the BJP’s policy in trying to divide Bengal by religious matters.”

West Bengal Governor Ananda Bose has expressed concern, questioning why Kabir has not been arrested if his statements pose a law-and-order threat. “I have received reports from the field that someone is deliberately trying to turn Murshidabad into a hub of scandal… If communal sentiments are stirred, the state and its government will not remain mute spectators,” he stated.

While Kabir has permission to hold an event on December 6, authorities in Murshidabad are on high alert. In protest of the SIR of voter lists, Kabir withdrew from Mamata Banerjee’s rally in Murshidabad shortly after his suspension.

The BJP has strongly condemned Kabir’s proposal. Spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo challenged Kabir to proceed with the construction, warning that such actions would inevitably lead to disputes. “Such statements are being made only to create communal tension,” Deo stated.

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