Kolkata: Firhad Hakim, a prominent leader of Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation, has ignited fresh controversy with his remarks about the future of the Muslim community in West Bengal.
Speaking at an event in Kolkata on Friday, Hakim stated that Muslims, who currently make up 33% of West Bengal’s population, may one day become the majority in the state, by “Allah’s will.” He suggested that once this happens, the community would no longer need to seek justice through peaceful protests, such as candlelight marches, but would instead be in a position where justice is automatically ensured. “Instead of holding candlelight rallies to demand justice, we should aim to be in a position where justice is naturally ensured without us needing to ask for it,” Hakim said.
His comments quickly sparked a backlash, particularly from the BJP. Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s IT department, condemned the remarks, alleging that Hakim’s vision hinted at a future where Muslims would no longer rely on peaceful means to seek justice, possibly alluding to Sharia law.
Malviya also expressed concern over Hakim’s comments in the context of rising illegal migration into Kolkata, particularly by Rohingyas, which he argued could destabilize the demographic balance.
This is not the first time Hakim has made controversial statements. In July 2024, he controversially declared that: “They are unfortunate, who are not born in Islam. We have to bring them under the fold of Islam. Allah will be happy if we do so.”
On Friday, Hakim also raised concerns about the underrepresentation of minorities in higher judiciary roles, stating that only a few judges in the Calcutta High Court and Supreme Court belong to the minority community. He further stated that with Allah’s grace and collective effort, such gaps could be closed, allowing the community to play a more prominent role in delivering justice.
Hakim’s remarks come amid ongoing tension surrounding demographic and religious dynamics in the state, as well as accusations from the TMC against the BJP of defaming certain areas. In a separate incident, Hakim claimed the BJP had tarnished the reputation of Sandeshkhali, following an alleged incident where a wedding was canceled due to fears that the bride, from Sandeshkhali, would be seen as “impure.”
The latest comments from the TMC leader have sparked further debate over the balance of religious and political influence in West Bengal, with the BJP accusing Hakim of stoking divisiveness in the state.
