Is Politics Over Mandir–Masjid Necessary? Former Babri Masjid Litigant Responds to Trinamool MLA’s Comments
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Unity over Division: Emphasizing the need for harmony in society.
- Political Maneuvering: Calls to avoid using religion for political gain.
- Focus on Welfare: Prioritizing job creation and national development.
- Reflection on History: Importance of acknowledging past events like the Babri Masjid demolition.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging constructive dialogue among communities.
Ayodhya, Nov 22 (NationPress) Following Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir's announcement to lay the foundation stone for a new 'Babri Masjid' in Murshidabad on December 6, coinciding with the anniversary of the original structure's demolition in Ayodhya, former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari remarked on Saturday that engaging in politics over Mandir and Masjid is unnecessary.
Kabir, who previously revealed plans for the mosque last year, stated that the ceremony is anticipated to attract around 200,000 attendees, with over 400 notable figures scheduled to appear, and the construction is projected to take approximately three years.
In a conversation with IANS, former litigant Iqbal Ansari expressed, “This issue pertains to Ayodhya, and after the Supreme Court delivered its ruling, Muslims nationwide honored it. The court allocated five acres of land, thus there is no need for political maneuvering regarding the mosque now. Time tends to make people forget, yet in today’s political climate, such matters are frequently resurrected.”
He continued, “There is no necessity to politicize Mandir–Masjid. This is detrimental to our nation. What we require is unity. I steer clear of politics driven by caste or religion. My desire is for peace in our country. Although caste and religion will persist, politics should not exploit them. Our discussions should center around the nation’s welfare, particularly on job creation rather than these controversies.”
Nevertheless, MLA Kabir's statements elicited strong backlash from the BJP, which accused the Trinamool Congress of engaging in “religion-centered politics” and “appeasement measures.”
BJP leader Agnimitra Paul stated, “Anyone is free to construct temples or mosques, yet the Trinamool Congress politicizes religion. Their choice of December 6 is transparent. The pressing question is, what has the Trinamool Congress accomplished for minorities thus far?”