Proposals for Babri Masjid, Ram Temple spark fears of polarisation before West Bengal polls

By A Representative

A political debate has emerged in West Bengal following recent announcements about plans for new religious structures in Murshidabad district, including a proposed mosque to be named Babri Masjid and a separate announcement by a BJP leader regarding the construction of a Ram temple in another location within Behrampur.

The announcements, made months ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, have triggered sharp reactions from various sections. Critics say the timing and the symbolic nature of the projects appear designed to influence the political atmosphere and shape electoral sentiment by invoking religious identity.

Concerns have been raised particularly over the proposal to name the mosque “Babri Masjid,” a title historically associated with decades of conflict and legal disputes. Observers warn that the decision could generate polarisation at a time when the state has been striving to maintain communal calm.

Alongside broader reactions, the Socialist Party (India) has expressed strong reservations about what it describes as a politically motivated move intended to disturb peace. In a statement, the party argued that decisions on religious constructions should remain within the domain of respective communities and not be driven by political actors. It also said that simultaneous announcements from different political quarters indicate a coordinated attempt to influence voter behaviour by sharpening religious divides.

While noting that the construction of religious structures is not in itself contentious, the party emphasised that using emotive symbols for electoral advantage diverts attention from key public issues, including unemployment, inflation and social welfare. The statement urged vigilance from the Election Commission and called on the administration to ensure that no action is taken that could disrupt communal harmony during the election period.

The party further appealed to the people of West Bengal to remain mindful of attempts to exploit religious identities for political purposes and to uphold values of unity and constitutional principles.

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