Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has dismissed a plea filed by Humayun Kabir, a suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislator and founder of the Janata Unnayan Party (JUP), seeking Z Plus security. The single-judge bench, presided over by Justice Suvra Ghosh, directed Kabir to instead approach the Union Ministry of Home Affairs with his request.

Kabir, who represents the Bharatpur Assembly constituency in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, argued that the state government had failed to provide adequate security, leaving him vulnerable to life threats. He cited receiving regular threats from unknown callers after forming the JUP and laying the foundation stone for a 'Babri' mosque in Beldanga. This event sparked considerable political controversy in West Bengal, particularly with state assembly polls approaching.

Justice Ghosh's bench stated that the Union Home Ministry is the appropriate authority to determine the level of security provided to individuals based on threat assessments. The court advised Kabir that only the ministry could decide on his security cover.

Humayun Kabir's political activities have been marked by controversy in recent months. He was suspended from the TMC after announcing plans to construct a Babri Masjid replica in Beldanga, a move that drew condemnation and led to his suspension from the party. Following his suspension, Kabir launched the Janata Unnayan Party and expressed willingness to form alliances with non-BJP and non-TMC political entities. However, no such alliances have materialized to date.

Kabir's recent activities include condemning the roadblock situation in Beldanga following protests over the alleged lynching of a migrant worker from West Bengal in Jharkhand. He attempted to address the protestors, but his efforts were unsuccessful.

Prior to seeking court-mandated security, Kabir hired private security guards from Hyderabad, claiming his life was in danger after laying the foundation stone for the controversial mosque. He stated that these guards would be responsible for his security until he received protection as per a court order.

His plan to construct a Babri Masjid replica has been a contentious issue. While Kabir has asserted his right to raise suppressed voices, critics view his actions as potentially disruptive, especially in the lead-up to the Assembly polls. Mamata Banerjee has even accused the BJP of supporting Kabir to undermine her party's minority vote base.

The denial of Kabir's plea for Z Plus security by the Calcutta High Court adds another layer to the ongoing political drama surrounding the former TMC MLA and his newly formed party. His future security arrangements now depend on his approach to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.