TMC Announces Babri Masjid Foundation Stone in Murshidabad

Humayun Kabir, a member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has announced plans to lay the foundation stone for a new Babri Masjid on December 6, 2025, in Beldanga, located in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal. This date marks the 33rd anniversary of the demolition of the original Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, an event that has deep historical and emotional significance in India.

The announcement came after the appearance of posters throughout Murshidabad promoting the event. Kabir stated, “We will lay the foundation stone of Babri Masjid on December 6 in Beldanga, Murshidabad district. It will take three years to complete. Various Muslim leaders will participate in that event.” His remarks have stirred significant controversy, drawing both support and criticism.

The original Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992, by a group of activists known as Kar Sevaks, an act that ignited widespread communal violence across the country. In response to Kabir’s announcement, representatives from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have expressed strong opposition. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned the TMC’s decision, accusing the party of engaging in “appeasement politics” aimed at securing votes.

Poonawalla characterized Kabir’s plans as a strategy that seeks to incite division among communities, saying, “This is the appeasement pro-max politics of TMC. TMC now means ‘Tushti Karan Mujhe Chahiye’,” referring to a perceived focus on minority appeasement. He further criticized Kabir’s previous statements and actions, claiming they undermine Hindu sentiments.

In contrast, TMC MLA Kabir defended his initiative, stating that laying the foundation for a mosque aligns with the principles of religious freedom. He highlighted the importance of respecting diverse faiths in India, where different communities coexist.

Support for Kabir’s announcement came from Congress leader Udit Raj, who argued that opposition to the event stems from unfounded speculation. Raj remarked, “If the foundation stone of a temple can be laid, what’s the problem with laying the foundation stone for a mosque? Those who oppose it are creating meaningless speculation. This is religious freedom in this country and in all countries.”

As the December 6 date approaches, the event is likely to spark further debate and potentially heightened tensions between political factions in West Bengal, reflecting the ongoing complexities surrounding religious and political identity in India.