Hooghly, 09 January (H.S.): Amidst the political stir in West Bengal ahead of the assembly elections, the visit of Humayun Kabir, Chairman of the Janata Unnayan Party and a suspended Trinamool Congress MLA, to Furfura Sharif on Friday has become a focal point of political discussion. His visit to this prominent religious site of the minority community in South Bengal has sparked intense speculation in political circles.
According to sources, Humayun Kabir is expected to visit Furfura Sharif on Friday and meet with Pirzada Toha Siddiqui. There are also speculations about a possible meeting with Abbas Siddiqui, the founder of the Indian Secular Front (ISF). Information suggests that Humayun Kabir might also conduct a public outreach campaign after offering Friday prayers. However, neither Humayun Kabir nor any prominent figure associated with Furfura Sharif has officially confirmed this entire programme.
Notably, Toha Siddiqui has been considered quite close to the Trinamool Congress. He has also previously openly questioned Humayun Kabir's use of religion in politics. Therefore, the potential meeting between the two before the elections is considered highly significant. Political analysts say that this meeting could indicate new equations in minority politics.
Humayun Kabir has been consistently in the headlines recently due to his statements and activities. By forming his own party, he has begun to project himself as an alternative force. His statements ranging from the reconstruction of the Babri Masjid to offering prayers at the Brigade Parade Ground have further clarified his strategy regarding the minority vote bank.
According to the last census, the Muslim community constitutes approximately 27 to 30 percent of West Bengal's total population. Minority voters play a decisive role in more than 90 assembly constituencies, most of which are located in South Bengal. Furfurah Sharif is considered to have considerable influence in districts such as Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey
