– Shabana Javed
Kolkata: Firhad Hakim, a state minister and Mayor of Kolkata Municipality, is a prominent leader of the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. This time, controversy has arisen over his choice of clothing. The BJP claims that Hakim wore a T-shirt worth Rs.45,000 while visiting the site of a devastating fire in Narkeldanga.
The fire, which broke out last Saturday night, resulted in the loss of one life and the destruction of more than 30 huts. Minister Firhad Hakim visited the affected area on Sunday morning, wearing a black T-shirt. BJP leaders have now questioned its cost, with Asansol South MLA Agnimitra Paul asserting that the T-shirt is valued at Rs.45,000.
In a social media post, the BJP MLA wrote, “The brand of the T-shirt worn by the mayor costs 45,000 taka. Yet, these Trinamool leaders claim to stand with the poor.” She further questioned, “An MLA’s monthly salary is 1,20,000 taka. So how does Mr. Firhad Hakim afford such an expensive T-shirt?”
Hakim swiftly responded, dismissing the criticism. “What about the logo? If someone gifts me a shirt, should I throw it away? If I receive it as a gift, why wouldn’t I wear it? The Prime Minister wears a suit worth one million taka. If you check the price, you’ll find at least Rs.45,000.”
Notably, Hakim has often been in the spotlight, sometimes due to his statements and, now, for his attire. As a highly active political figure, any discussion about his personal choices inevitably sparks curiosity and debate among the public.
