TMC Candidate Ehteshamul Haque Kicks Off Campaign in Nandigram, Targets Mamata Banerjee
Ehteshamul Haque launches his campaign in Nandigram, criticizing Mamata Banerjee and seeking support from the local Muslim community.
Nandigram, September 25 (Daily Kiran) : Ehteshamul Haque, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate, has officially launched his campaign for the upcoming by-election in Nandigram. He began his outreach by meeting local residents, particularly from the Muslim community, to garner their support. During the campaign kickoff, he took aim at former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her political strategies.
Haque stated that he initiated his campaign after offering prayers on Friday, receiving blessings from the community. He engaged with local Muslim voters, who assured him of their backing in the election. He urged the minority community not to split their votes and to rally behind him.
Accusing Banerjee of exploiting the Muslim community for political gain, Haque claimed that although promises were made to uplift Muslims, tangible development has been lacking. He noted that during her long tenure, many felt unable to voice their concerns, but now, people are more outspoken. “The people of West Bengal have distanced themselves from Mamata Banerjee,” he remarked.
He also highlighted the issue of representation for Muslim candidates in the assembly, pointing out that there were 70 Muslim candidates when the Congress was in power in 2011. However, this number dwindled to 57 in 2016 and further declined to 42 in subsequent elections. Haque emphasized that while the community has been pivotal in supporting the party, they have not been given adequate opportunities in leadership roles.
The TMC candidate expressed that the public is now more aware and that one person’s influence in politics cannot last indefinitely. He stressed the importance of engaging with children and youth in a positive manner rather than through authoritarian tactics. Haque claimed to be receiving strong support from local leaders and residents, stating he is consistently meeting people to discuss their needs and garner their electoral support.
Describing his candidacy from a significant seat like Nandigram as a major responsibility, he acknowledged the trust placed in him by senior party leaders. He called for unity across all castes, classes, and communities, urging Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians to stand together and reject divisive politics.
