Should Those Opposing the Mosque Construction Step Aside?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Murshidabad, Feb 11 (NationPress) After two months since the foundation stone was laid for a replica of the Babri Masjid in Murshidabad, the construction of this mosque is poised to commence in the West Bengal district starting from Wednesday. Humayun Kabir, President of the Janata Unnayan Party (JUP), a key figure behind this controversial project, stated on Wednesday that individuals opposing the mosque's construction ought to 'step aside'.
In an interview with IANS, Kabir asserted, “To those who oppose, I say step aside. Everyone has the freedom to practice their own faith and construct temples, churches, or whatever they desire. I will not stand against anyone in the name of Islam. My endeavor is for Islam, to honor Allah and express my devotion. It is not about enforcing anything.”
“I am thankful to Allah for making the mosque's construction possible. I also appreciate everyone who has supported this initiative,” he mentioned.
Kabir emphasized that the construction would proceed peacefully, despite facing opposition from certain groups.
“We are quite pleased. With Allah’s blessings, the work is advancing well. Although many attempt to halt it, with Allah’s aid, the mosque's construction will safely commence today,” he expressed.
He reflected on the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992, questioning why it was destroyed.
“The Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992. I often pondered why it was brought down. Thus, this represents a small contribution from me as a Muslim. I wish to express my gratitude to the countless individuals who made this possible,” he added.
At the site, numerous supporters were seen engaging in preparations for the construction.
One supporter carrying bricks mentioned to IANS, “I have come here to assist in constructing the Babri Masjid by transporting bricks.”
Humayun Kabir, who laid the foundation stone of the mosque on December 6 last year, has also shared the architectural design of the mosque. He posted this design on his social media account on Monday.
After being suspended by the Trinamool Congress for announcing the construction of a 'Babri Masjid' replica in Murshidabad, Kabir established his own Janata Unnayan Party.
The MLA, who has been vocal in his criticism of the Trinamool leadership, informed reporters that his former party leader, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, “will not become the Chief Minister and will not be sworn in.”
This development has also sparked reactions from political leaders beyond the state. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath declared on Tuesday that the Babri structure would never be reconstructed.
On Tuesday, Adityanath stated that ‘Qayamat (doomsday)' would never arrive, thus the Babri Masjid would not be rebuilt.
Kabir, meanwhile, announced plans for a 'Babri Yatra' starting Thursday — a three-day march to the replica site from Palashi in Murshidabad to Itahar in Dinajpur.