'Voting Rights Are Constitutionally Guaranteed, Not Granted by EC or BJP': Firhad Hakim
Synopsis
Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim criticized the Election Commission's role in electoral roll revisions, asserting that voting rights are constitutionally guaranteed. His comments come as the Trinamool Congress prepares for critical elections in Bhabanipur, where sentiment leans heavily towards Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Key Takeaways
Voting rights are constitutionally protected.
The Election Commission faces criticism for perceived bias.
Bhabanipur is a critical electoral battleground.
The Trinamool Congress emphasizes development in its campaign.
Public sentiment appears to favor Mamata Banerjee.
Kolkata, March 25 (NationPress) In a vehement response to the Election Commission, Kolkata Mayor and West Bengal Minister Firhad Hakim asserted on Wednesday that the right to vote is enshrined in the Indian Constitution, not granted by the EC or any political party. This statement comes amid the ongoing debate regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state.
Accompanied by his daughter, Priyadarshini, Hakim was campaigning in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency for the upcoming two-phased Assembly elections in West Bengal.
Hakim expressed his concerns, stating, "It appears as though the Election Commission has been elevated to a divine status. Every citizen of India holds the right to vote, a privilege bestowed by the Constitution rather than the EC, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), or the Central government. Those who do not adhere to the Constitution cannot legitimately claim to be Indian."
He further accused the EC of involvement in malpractices, emphasizing that "democracy cannot thrive on scams."
Pointing towards perceived bias, the Mayor of Kolkata remarked, "The Supreme Court should recognize that the Election Commission is openly aligning with the BJP. As a Constitutional body, it must uphold its responsibilities and adhere to established regulations."
Bhabanipur has become a focal point in the electoral landscape, with a high-stakes competition between West Bengal's Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee and BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, making it a battle of prestige reliant on public sentiment.
Hakim conveyed his confidence in Banerjee's victory in Bhabanipur, stating, "The response we are receiving is overwhelmingly positive. People are expressing their support for 'Didi' (Mamata Banerjee). I anticipate she will secure a substantial win here."
He added, "We maintain a strong connection with the community 24/7. 'Didi' is truly the daughter of Bhabanipur."
His daughter, Priyadarshini Hakim, who is also associated with the Trinamool Congress, commented, "Our campaign slogan, 'Unnayan ghore ghore,' signifies that development is reaching every home in West Bengal."
She concluded, "We are actively conducting a door-to-door campaign in Bhabanipur to remind citizens of the developmental initiatives undertaken by the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government."
Point of View
Reflecting a broader concern about electoral integrity.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Firhad Hakim say about voting rights?
Firhad Hakim emphasized that voting rights are granted by the Indian Constitution and not by the Election Commission or any political party.
How does Hakim view the Election Commission's role?
Hakim criticized the Election Commission for being biased and accused it of engaging in malpractices that undermine democracy.
What is the significance of the Bhabanipur constituency?
Bhabanipur is a key battleground in the upcoming Assembly elections, featuring a high-profile contest between Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari.
What is the Trinamool Congress's campaign slogan?
The Trinamool Congress's campaign slogan is 'Unnayan ghore ghore,' which translates to development reaching every home in West Bengal.
What is the expected outcome of the elections according to Hakim?
Hakim expressed confidence that Mamata Banerjee will win decisively in Bhabanipur, citing positive public sentiment.
