'Where is Yusuf Pathan?' TMC MP's absence amid violence sparks controversy

Days after Murshidabad in West Bengal witnessed violent communal clashes, Berhampore MP and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Yusuf Pathan finds himself in a growing controversy. With the district still reeling from unrest, several political parties, locals, and even sections within his party have raised concerns over his visible absence from the scene.

Murshidabad, which has three Lok Sabha constituencies – Berhampore, Jangipur, and Murshidabad – is entirely represented by the TMC in Parliament. However, Pathan, who represents Berhampore, has come under fire for not visiting his constituency during the recent turmoil that claimed three lives and led to the arrest of over 270 individuals.

What fueled the criticism further was an Instagram post by Pathan on April 12 – a day after violence broke out in areas like Samserganj, Dhulian, and Suti. The post showed him sipping tea and enjoying a quiet moment with the caption: “Easy afternoons, good chai and calm surroundings. Just soaking in the moment.” The tone of the post, amid ongoing chaos in his district, sparked outrage among residents and opposition leaders alike.

Local accounts indicate that Pathan was last seen in Berhampore before Eid on March 31. While he did take part in a few Iftar gatherings during Ramzan, many believe his continued absence since then has sent the wrong message, especially to the youth who were looking for leadership and assurance during these tense times.

The Opposition, primarily the BJP, has seized the opportunity to corner the TMC, accusing its leaders of negligence. Meanwhile, the other two MPs from the district, Abu Taher Khan and Khalilur Rehman, have been actively participating in peace meetings and engaging with locals to restore harmony in the affected areas.

Within the TMC itself, murmurs of dissatisfaction are growing louder. Many party workers have expressed disappointment over Pathan’s detachment, suggesting that his on-ground presence and appeal could have played a role in pacifying the situation and aiding peace-building efforts.