TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Defends Remarks, Refuses to Apologize in Show-Cause Reply

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata : Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA from Bharatpur, Murshidabad, Humayun Kabir, on Saturday submitted his response to the show-cause notice issued by the party’s disciplinary committee. The notice was issued under the directive of TMC chairperson and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, following Kabir’s remarks on religion, which had stirred controversy.

State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, who also chairs the disciplinary committee, confirmed receipt of Kabir’s response and stated that the committee would review it in a meeting on Monday before making a final decision. Sources revealed that Kabir did not offer an apology, asserting that his statements did not violate the party’s disciplinary norms. He maintained that his comments were made in defense of his community and were in response to statements by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari, which he deemed objectionable.

Kabir had initially requested an extension until Monday to submit his response but ultimately sent a two-page reply via WhatsApp on Saturday morning. In his statement, he justified his remarks and reiterated his commitment to defending his religious community against any attacks. He further stated that he prioritized his community over party obligations, emphasizing that his words did not tarnish the party’s image.

The controversy stems from Kabir’s strong reaction to Adhikari’s alleged comments targeting Muslim MLAs in the ruling party. On Thursday, Kabir had demanded an apology or retraction from Adhikari within 72 hours, warning of consequences in the Assembly if the demand was not met. He had previously stated that 42 Muslim MLAs of TMC would collectively respond to Adhikari’s remarks if he failed to apologize.

Chattopadhyay has also instructed Kabir to submit a hard copy of his response, after which the disciplinary committee will deliberate on the matter. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly condemned Adhikari’s statements, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of introducing divisive religious politics into West Bengal. The situation is expected to intensify as the Assembly session resumes on Monday, with both parties holding firm on their positions.