Congress Leader Blames Kolkata Mayor for Deadly Building Collapse

In a significant development from Kolkata, WB, on March 19, Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has openly criticized Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim for his alleged role in the collapse of an illegal under-construction building that resulted in the tragic loss of 10 lives. Chowdhury argued that Hakim, who also serves as the Urban Development Minister of the state, should have stepped down from his position on moral grounds following the incident.

The controversy stems from an early Monday disaster when a five-storey building under construction in Hakim's constituency crumbled. The Congress state president accused Hakim of being directly responsible for the mishap, suggesting that the building's collapse was due to non-compliance with construction regulations. Furthermore, Chowdhury criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for not dismissing Hakim from his mayoral role in light of these events.

Chowdhury also highlighted allegations that the collapsed structure was being built over a pond that had been filled in illegally, pointing to a broader issue of regulatory oversight. He went on to claim that such incidents have become a revenue source for the ruling TMC party, compromising the safety and future of Kolkata's citizens.

Aside from the building collapse issue, Chowdhury touched upon the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), accusing both the BJP and TMC of exploiting it for political leverage. He criticized the act's lack of clarity and its divisive implications, asserting that it has not benefitted anyone despite causing widespread confusion and concern among citizens regarding their citizenship status.

The Berhampore MP reminisced about how his party had resolved citizenship confusions back in 1955, questioning the logic behind the new requirements imposed by the CAA. He condemned the BJP for creating unnecessary problems through this legislation.

This incident and its aftermath have sparked a heated debate over accountability and governance in Kolkata, with significant implications for both local and national politics. As investigations continue and political battles unfold, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and preventing such tragedies in the future.