With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections reaching their peak, Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim has landed in a fresh controversy following his remarks on religion and communalism. During a high-octane campaign rally in the Kolkata Port constituency on Sunday, Hakim’s “unfiltered” comments have triggered a massive political face-off. Addressing a large gathering, the veteran TMC leader made statements that many analysts are describing as an attempt to leverage religious sentiments before the polls.

Directly attacking the BJP, Hakim alleged that the opposition is trying to destroy the secular fabric of the state, but his own rhetoric has been labeled as “polarizing” by his rivals. The BJP was quick to condemn the speech, accusing the Mayor of using communal tactics to consolidate minority votes out of fear of losing ground. As the campaign in the sensitive Port area intensifies, Hakim’s bold remarks have put the Election Commission on high alert. The controversy adds a new layer of tension to an already volatile election season in Bengal.