Kolkata, June 4 (IANS). Amidst the news of resignation of Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, the rhetoric in the politics of West Bengal has intensified. West Bengal government minister Agnimitra Paul, while posting on the social media platform ‘X’, has raised questions on the attitude of Firhad Hakim and many councilors and public representatives associated with the former ruling system.
Agnimitra Paul wrote in the post that the resignation of Firhad Hakim and the absence of many public representatives raise serious questions about public accountability and political responsibility. Any public office is not just a symbol of power, but it is also a serious responsibility to serve the public, especially when the city is facing challenges.
He said that Kolkata is going through an important phase at this time. With the onset of monsoon the city faces many challenges such as waterlogging, drainage management, public health, road maintenance and emergency preparedness. At such times, people expect their elected representatives to stand by them and maintain the smooth functioning of civic amenities. Instead, the public has witnessed a shirking of responsibility. He said that political differences and electoral victory and defeat are part of democracy, but governance and public service cannot be abandoned because of this.
Agnimitra Paul said that there is a difference between political affiliation and public duty. Political circumstances may change, but responsibility towards the public always remains. Resigning at such a time gives the message that political equations have been given more priority than public welfare. People had elected their representatives for the full term and expected them to work for the development of the city regardless of political circumstances.
Agnimitra Paul said that true leadership is identified not in favorable circumstances, but in times of crisis and uncertainty. The city cannot be held hostage to political calculations. Roads, drainage, public services and civic amenities must remain operational at all costs. Kolkata will continue to move forward, development will continue and public service will also continue. But this entire incident is a reminder that the trust given by the public comes with a huge responsibility, which cannot be given up conveniently.
–IANS
VKU/ABM
