JD(U) MP Defends Suspended TMC MLA Over Babri Masjid Foundation

Kaushalendra Kumar, JD(U) MP, spoke in defense of Humayun Kabir, a suspended West Bengal MLA from the Trinamool Congress, for initiating the foundation of a mosque in Murshidabad reminiscent of the Babri Masjid. Kumar emphasized constitutional religious rights, distancing himself from BJP's opposition to the mosque honoring Mughal emperor Babur.

Kaushalendra Kumar, JD(U) Member of Parliament, came forth on Monday to defend Humayun Kabir, a West Bengal MLA suspended by the Trinamool Congress. Kabir faced suspension for laying the foundation stone of a mosque in Murshidabad, modeled after the controversial Babri Masjid.

Speaking to journalists in his constituency of Nalanda, Kumar stressed the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom, challenging the BJP's criticism that the mosque honors Mughal emperor Babur, seen by some as an invader. Kumar's stance diverges from the BJP's narrative, even as his party aligns with the BJP at the central and state level.

The TMC's suspension of Kabir, whose actions resonate with some Muslim sentiments, drew questions, especially with the BJP's robust opposition to the mosque in poll-bound West Bengal. The issue highlights ongoing tensions between religious rights and political strategies as local elections loom.

(With inputs from agencies.)