Heightened security in West Bengal Ahead of Controversial mosque Foundation stone Laying
A important security operation is underway in parts of West Bengal‘s Murshidabad district as preparations proceed for the foundation stone laying of a mosque intended to mirror the design of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. The project is spearheaded by Humayun Kabir, a currently suspended Member of the legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Trinamool Congress (TMC).This event is occurring against a backdrop of recent communal tensions and political fallout, prompting a robust response from state and central authorities.
A History of Sensitivity & Recent Unrest
The choice to model the new mosque after the Babri Masjid – demolished in 1992 – is inherently sensitive, given its past and emotional weight in India’s communal landscape. The Beldanga area where the mosque is planned, experienced communal violence just this past April, necessitating the continued presence of central police forces as mandated by the Calcutta High Court. This recent unrest underscores the potential for escalation and informs the current security posture.
Extensive Security Deployment
Authorities are taking no chances.Over 4,000 police personnel have been deployed to the region, including:
* Two IPS officers at the Superintendent of Police rank.
* At least 30 deputy Superintendent-level officers.
* Approximately 100 Police Inspectors.
* Deployment of the Rapid Action Force (RAF).
Police pickets and temporary camps have been strategically established throughout Beldanga and Rejinagar to maintain vigilance and facilitate rapid response. Moreover, 19 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) already stationed in the area following the April riots remain on standby.
Political Ramifications & Party Response
The project has triggered a swift and decisive response from Kabir’s own party. Firhad Hakim, a senior TMC leader, announced Kabir’s suspension on Thursday, citing “gross indiscipline” and a perceived undermining of the party’s efforts to foster peace and communal harmony in West Bengal. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee went further, publicly labeling Kabir a “traitor working for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)” during a rally in Murshidabad.
Legal Scrutiny & Court Directives
The Calcutta High Court reviewed the situation on Friday but refrained from issuing a stay order on the foundation stone laying. Though, the court did direct the state government to ensure adequate measures are in place to maintain law and order at the site.This directive reinforces the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the potential for disruption.
Governor’s Appeal for Calm & Monitoring
west Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose has issued a public appeal for calm and vigilance, urging citizens to resist provocative statements and the spread of rumors. He has also established a 24/7 Access Point Cell at Lok Bhavan (formerly Raj Bhavan) – reachable at 033-22001641 – to receive reports of any untoward incidents. The Governor’s office will actively monitor the situation.
A Complex Political trajectory
humayun Kabir’s political career has been marked by frequent shifts and controversies. His journey includes:
* Beginning his career in the Congress party in 1983.
* Winning the Rejinagar seat in 2011.
* Joining the TMC and briefly serving as a minister.
* A six-year expulsion from the TMC in 2015 for anti-party activities.
* A stint with the BJP from 2018-2019.
* Returning to the TMC and winning the Bharatpur seat as an autonomous candidate in 2021.
This history of political maneuvering adds another layer of complexity to the current situation, raising questions about motivations and potential external influences.
looking Ahead
The foundation stone laying ceremony is expected to proceed under intense scrutiny. The combined efforts of state and central security forces, coupled with the governor’s proactive monitoring and appeals for calm, aim to prevent any escalation of tensions. The event will undoubtedly be a closely watched test of West Bengal’s ability to manage sensitive communal issues and maintain public order.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information as of December 7, 2023, and is intended for informational purposes only. The situation is dynamic and subject to change.
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