Kolkata Municipal Corporation Mayor Firhad Hakim. | Photo Courtesy: Debashish Bahaduri
Amid criticism of senior Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim’s controversial comments on Muslim percentage in population, the state’s ruling party on Monday (Dec 16, 2024) distanced itself from his statement and condemned them.
The controversy erupted after a video of Kolkata mayor and state urban development and municipal affairs minister Hakeem addressing a gathering of minority students on Saturday surfaced.
In the address, Mr. Hakim reportedly said, “In West Bengal we (Muslims) are 33 percent and nationwide, we are 17 percent.” Advocating that the minorities should try to reach a position where they can assert themselves more strongly, Mr. Hakeem said, “We may be a minority numerically, but by the grace of Allah we can be so powerful that we call for justice. We do not need to hold candlelight processions for justice. We will be in a position to become a majority in the true sense of empowerment.” The video of Mr. Hakim’s speech went viral, but PTI could not independently verify its authenticity.
Reacting sharply, the Trinamool Congress issued a statement on Monday distancing itself from Hakim’s comments.
“The All India Trinamool Congress strongly disassociates itself and strongly condemns the statement made by Mr. Firhad Hakim, MIC GoWB, at a program yesterday. These comments do not reflect the party’s position or ideology. Peace, unity, and our commitment. Communal harmony will remain intact, Any comment that threatens the social fabric of West Bengal will be dealt with sternly,” the party said in a statement. post.
The remarks triggered a political storm, with opposition parties, particularly the BJP, accusing Hakim of trying to inflame communal sentiments.
BJP’s West Bengal President and Union Minister of State for Education Sukant Majumdar said, “This statement is not only divisive but also hints at creating a Bangladesh-like situation. It is an open call for communal hatred.” Sources within the TMC said top party leaders expressed displeasure over Hakim’s comments, which came at a time when the party was trying to counter the BJP’s Hindutva politics.
Speaking informally to party colleagues, Mr. Hakim said his remarks were allegedly misinterpreted.
Mr. Hakim told party leaders that he was not talking about numerical majority. Addressing the socio-economic backwardness of the minorities, he urged them to emphasize on education and skill development to become more empowered. He said he meant that only minorities worked hard and received Allah’s blessings, they could progress and gain respect in society, sources said.
Despite Hakim’s clarification, the controversy has caused ripples within the TMC.
Political observers believe the comments add to the challenges the party is facing, especially at a time when West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee is projecting herself as a leader of inclusive governance by engaging with all communities.
Political analysts noted that Ms. Banerjee’s recent efforts, such as overseeing the construction of the Jagannath temple in Digha, were aimed at countering the BJP’s Hindutva narrative.
“Hakim’s comments have complicated the party’s message,” admitted a party worker on condition of anonymity.
In the middle of an event on Sunday, Mr. Hakim had said, “I am a staunch secular and patriotic Indian. No one can question my secular values and love for my country. However, when contacted by reporters on Monday, he refused to comment, saying, ‘I have nothing to say on this matter.’ On the other hand, the BJP has taken advantage of the opportunity to target the TMC.
Majumdar said, “Hakim’s statement is a sign of imposing Sharia law in India. Such communal rhetoric is unacceptable and dangerous.” On Saturday, TMC state general secretary Kunal Ghosh defended Hakim and said his comments were misinterpreted.
“What he means is the upliftment of a large number of members of minority communities so that they can join mainstream society and contribute to nation building,” Ghosh said.
He said that Hakim’s secular and liberal values are well known and he actively participates in various religious festivals while promoting communal harmony.
published – Dec 16, 2024 06:51 pm IST