BJP accuses Trinamool of playing politics over religious matters ahead of elections

The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress of engaging in political maneuvers concerning religious issues before the upcoming Assembly elections. The accusation follows Trinamool MLA Zakir Hussain’s announcement of building a Shri Krishna temple at an estimated cost of Rs one crore. Another Trinamool MLA, who was suspended, previously announced and proceeded with constructing a Babri mosque, said to resemble the one in Ayodhya demolished in 1992.
BJP leader Gourav Vallabh criticized the timing of these statements, suggesting that they reveal Trinamool Congress’ strategy of using faith for political gain. He questioned why religious structures like temples and mosques are being brought up just two months before elections. Vallabh also alleged that the ruling party had neglected real issues for years and was now resorting to religious matters to sway voters.
BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra also expressed skepticism, questioning the motives behind raising religious issues at this point. He highlighted that discussing temples and mosques in West Bengal seemed to be a tactic to polarize voters during the election season.
BJP leader Raj Purohit added to the criticism, stating that Rs one crore would not suffice to build a grand temple for Krishna, emphasizing the need for much larger funds. He compared the cost of the proposed Shri Krishna temple to the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
Opposition leaders, including Congress’ Udit Raj and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, emphasized the importance of focusing on human development rather than getting embroiled in religious debates. They raised concerns about the use of public funds for constructing religious structures, advocating for a focus on critical issues like employment, reservations, and quality education.
Samajwadi Party MLA Ravidas Mehrotra highlighted that individuals have the right to build temples or mosques on their private property as per the Constitution. The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of the suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir laying the foundation stone for a proposed Babri Masjid in Murshidabad. Despite his suspension, Kabir remained steadfast in his commitment to constructing the mosque, asserting that the project was well-prepared financially and logistically.