Humayun Kabir summoned for questioning in controversial remarks case
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Naoda MLA and Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) chief Humayun Kabir has been summoned for police questioning in connection with two separate cases filed against him over allegedly provocative remarks made at public meetings in Murshidabad district, West Bengal. The summons were served on Tuesday when police visited Kabir's residence, directing him to appear before Rejinagar and Shaktipur police stations on 3 July and 5 July, respectively.
How the Summons Were Served
Police personnel arrived at Kabir's home on Tuesday and left formal notices for his appearance. However, Kabir claimed he was not present at the time and said he remained unaware of the summons. He indicated he would decide on compliance only after physically receiving the notice.
Speaking to reporters, Kabir said, 'I am not at home. But there are people at home. I will know for sure when I receive the notice. Then I will think about the appearance. But I will not be a slave to anyone.'
Three Organisers Already Arrested
The police action against Kabir follows swiftly on the heels of the arrest of three organisers of the meetings where the controversial remarks were allegedly made. The arrested individuals — Golam Mustafa, Mohammad Aminuk Haque, and Anisur Rahman — were detained by Murshidabad district police in two separate operations on Monday night.
Golam Mustafa, president of AJUP's Kashipur II zone and the 'main initiator' of the event, had originally sought police permission to organise the party meeting. Mohammad Aminuk Haque was arrested along with Golam in a case filed by Rejinagar police station; his residence is in Loknathpur village of Rejinagar. Anisur Rahman, convener of AJUP's Beldanga II block, was taken into custody by Shaktipur police station.
Chief Minister Adhikari's Warning
The police action came within 24 hours of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's pointed warning during his address to the Assembly. Targeting Kabir directly, Adhikari said, 'I will first pick up those who called him, and then come to you (Kabir). I assure you that I will do whatever I have to do. Hold on to this, this is his last statement. This government will establish the rule of law. Enough is enough. It is time to teach such people a lesson.' He also called on Kabir to exercise restraint.
Background: The Controversial Meetings
The controversy stems from public meetings that Kabir addressed in the Rejinagar and Shaktipur areas of Murshidabad. Allegations emerged that certain remarks during his speeches were provocative in nature, prompting the registration of two FIRs — one each at Rejinagar and Shaktipur police stations. The controversy spilled into the state Assembly, where Kabir's comments drew sharp reactions.
Kabir, for his part, has denied making any remarks against the Chief Minister. He said, 'I spoke against the way those who are new BJP members, those who joined BJP after May 4, have caused unrest in the area. If I am arrested for that, then so be it. I fought against these people and formed a new party. I won.'
What Happens Next
With the summons issued and three organisers already in custody, the question now is whether Kabir will present himself before the two police stations as directed. His non-committal response suggests the possibility of a legal challenge. The case is being closely watched as a test of political accountability in Murshidabad, a district that has seen recurring communal and political tensions.