On July 3, Firhad Hakim, a Cabinet Minister in the Trinamool Congress (TMC) Government provoked significant controversy by making derogatory remarks about non-Muslims, labelling them as “unfortunate” and openly advocating for their conversion to Islam.
Hakim, who is also the Mayor of Kolkata and a close confidant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, made these contentious comments during the ‘All India Quran Competition’ held at the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata.
In his speech, Hakim stated, “Those who were not born into Islam were born with misfortune. If we can give them Dawat (call for proselytism) and bring Iman (faith) to them, then we will make Allah happy.”
He further asserted, “We need to spread Islam among non-Muslims. If we can bring someone on the path of Islam, then we will prove to be true Muslims by ensuring the spread of Faith.”
Hakim emphasised the strength and unity displayed by the gathering, saying, “We showcase strength when thousands of people sit like this wearing skull caps. It shows unity and gives an assurance that none can subdue us.”
He added, “Since we are born into Islam, the Prophet and Allah made a clear path for us to Jannat. If we don’t commit any sins, we will directly go to Jannat.”
This is not the first time the Kolkata Mayor has made headlines for controversial reasons.
In April 2016, Hakim referred to a Muslim-majority area in Kolkata as ‘Mini-Pakistan.’
In February 2021, he was seen giving a political speech at a mosque in Kolkata, violating the Model Code of Conduct.
During the anti-CAA movement, to appease Muslim protesters, Hakim referred to them as ‘brothers.’
He also described the Central Armed forces and the BJP as ‘Suar er baccha’ (progeny of pigs).
Additionally, Hakim has openly supported the ‘Urduisation’ of Bengal, claiming, “Inshallah, one day will come when half of the population of Bengal will speak Urdu and recite poetry.”
