Controversy Arises Over Replica Mosque Construction in West Bengal

The construction of a Babri Masjid replica in West Bengal by suspended MLA Humayun Kabir spurs controversy, with Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticizing it as a 'dummy.' Despite opposition, Kabir plans a grand mosque costing Rs 50-55 crore on 11 acres, accommodating 12,000 people.

The announcement by suspended MLA Humayun Kabir to construct a replica of the Babri Masjid in West Bengal has sparked controversy, with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ridiculing the project as a mere 'dummy'. Sarma, speaking to reporters in Mirzapur, questioned the significance of such a replica, given the original structure no longer exists.

Kabir, who has recently launched his own political party, the Janata Unnayan Party, initiated the construction of this mosque in Murshidabad's Beldanga, modeled after the Ayodhya Babri Masjid. The project, set on an 11-acre site, is projected to cost around Rs 50-55 crore and aims to accommodate approximately 12,000 worshippers.

The proposal has drawn the ire of groups like the Vishva Hindu Raksha Parishad, which has urged citizens in Uttar Pradesh to oppose the construction. This development comes in the wake of the historic Supreme Court verdict on November 9, 2019, which resolved the Ayodhya land dispute, allowing for the construction of a Ram temple at the site.

(With inputs from agencies.)