Overview
- Humayun Kabir said the December 6 foundation-stone programme in Beldanga will go ahead, with Quran recitation from noon before the ceremony.
- The Calcutta High Court refused to halt the event and directed police to ensure peace, as the state reported extensive preparations to manage crowds.
- Authorities created a high-security grid around the site and NH-12 with Rapid Action Force, district police and central forces, with officials indicating nearly 3,000 personnel on duty and 19 companies from the Centre in the area.
- The political fight escalated, with the BJP alleging Trinamool orchestration for polarisation and TMC leaders accusing Kabir of aiding BJP designs to stir tensions.
- TMC suspended Kabir for ‘communal’ and anti-party activities; he says he will resign, launch a new party on December 22 and contest roughly 135 assembly seats.