– Shabana Javed
Kolkata: A mosque proposed to be named after the Babri Masjid was inaugurated in Murshidabad, West Bengal December 6, the date the original structure was demolished in Ayodhya in 1992. Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir laid the foundation stone of the mosque, triggering intense political debate in the state. Humayun Kabir, expelled from the Trinamool Congress for “anti-party activities,” said he intentionally chose December 6 to mark the beginning of construction.
Both the BJP and Congress criticised Kabir for his move, while the Trinamool Congress accused him of promoting religious division, hinting at his alleged closeness to BJP. Despite party objections, Kabir went ahead with the programme, which kept state politics tense for several days.
A legal petition seeking intervention due to fears of communal disturbance was filed, but the court refused to step in, assigning responsibility for maintaining law and order to the state government.
Ahead of the ceremony, security was tightened, with Rapid Action Force (RAF) units deployed in the Beldanga area. Crowds gathered early on Saturday as the event commenced.
Speaking at the site, Kabir declared defiantly: “The Babri Masjid will be built here. No force can stop it. Even if someone tries, I will stand against it with my life.”
This year marks 33 years since the demolition of Babri Masjid. The day remains politically charged in West Bengal, where the TMC observes it annually as Solidarity Day. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appealed for peace and communal harmony, while senior party leaders indirectly criticised Kabir’s actions.
In contrast, a Hindutva organisation supported by BJP leader Shuvendu Adhikari held a Shaurya Yatra on December 6, adding to the political polarisation surrounding the day.
