Heightened Tension in West Bengal as Foundation Laid for ‘Babri Masjid’ in Murshidabad
Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir leads event amid heavy security and growing political friction.
Murshidabad: Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir arrived in Beldanga, Murshidabad, on Saturday to lay the foundation stone of what he is calling the “Babri Masjid.” The event took place at Chaitani Mora Deghi in Beldanga Block-1, where large crowds began gathering from early morning. Heavy security arrangements were put in place across the area.
Before leaving for the venue, Kabir told reporters, “I will lay the foundation stone by 2 p.m. No force can stop this. We are proceeding strictly according to the Calcutta High Court order.”
He alleged that attempts were being made to incite violence to disrupt the ceremony, but said he believed that “lakhs of people” would prevent any such disturbance.
Over 2,000 volunteers deployed
Kabir announced that more than 2,000 volunteers had been stationed for the programme. He added that the site would not only include a mosque, but also a hospital, educational institutions and a guest house open to all communities.
Rising political and social tension
Addressing supporters, Kabir said, “There are 28.2 million Muslim voters in Bengal, and their votes are decisive in nearly 90 Assembly seats. Minority candidates must win every seat.”
Political analysts believe this statement signals significant shifts in the state’s political landscape.
Heavy security presence
Officials from Hariharpara and Raninagar police stations met Kabir on Friday to discuss security measures. To maintain order, 250 BSF personnel, 100 constables and several ACP-rank officers were deployed. Security forces also conducted route marches through the night.
District Police Chief Kumar Soni Raj said, “All preparations are in place to maintain law and order.”
Political disagreement surfaces
Minister of State Siddiqullah Chowdhury, during a press conference, urged clerics and youth not to participate in the event. Without naming anyone, he stated that the situation could have been avoided if the matter had been handled properly earlier by the party.
Crowds arrive carrying bricks
In scenes reminiscent of the Ram Temple foundation ceremony in Ayodhya, hundreds of people arrived at the site carrying bricks on their heads and participated in the event with great enthusiasm.
Background
A few days ago, Bharatpur MLA Humayun Kabir declared that he would lay the foundation stone for the Babri Masjid on December 6. Following this announcement, the Trinamool Congress suspended him from the party on December 4.
