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TMC MLA Humayun Kabir has called for a major leadership change in West Bengal, proposing that Abhishek Banerjee be appointed as the full-time Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister to resolve ongoing law and order challenges. Kabir's recommendation comes in light of the increasing concerns over the state’s security situation, including high-profile incidents like the Kasba shooting and the RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case. These events have triggered intense discussions on the role of the state police and their ability to maintain public safety.
Kabir, a legislator from Bharatpur, emphasized that appointing Abhishek Banerjee to oversee police affairs would ensure that crime in the state is addressed with the urgency and attention it requires. According to Kabir, with Mamata Banerjee juggling multiple responsibilities, the absence of a full-time Home Minister has resulted in lapses in the state’s law enforcement. “A full-time police minister would ensure that no crime goes unnoticed,” Kabir remarked, underlining that Banerjee’s involvement in both the Chief Minister’s office and as Home Minister would benefit the people of Bengal.
The proposal also comes after the opposition raised similar concerns regarding the lack of a full-time Home Minister. Kabir argued that such a move would not only address the law and order problem but also create a stronger, more focused leadership structure in the state. He pointed out that the Chief Minister, while effectively leading the state, often finds it challenging to manage the police department, given the increasing responsibilities she holds. Kabir's proposal mirrors the earlier demand for a full-time Health Minister following the Arji Kar incident, reflecting growing concerns within the TMC about the functioning of key departments.
Kabir’s statement has ignited further questions about the state’s governance. His suggestion to appoint Abhishek Banerjee as Deputy CM and Home Minister has added to the ongoing debate within the ruling party on how to address the state’s security challenges. While Kabir’s comments have been met with support from some quarters, opposition figures like CPM leader Sujan Chakraborty have raised doubts, questioning the effectiveness of Mamata Banerjee’s multi-tasking as both Health and Home Minister. In response, TMC leaders, including Kunal Ghosh, have defended Kabir’s comments, stating that concerns should be brought up with higher party authorities rather than aired publicly.