Kolkata's Political Iftars Kick Off Early Ahead of Elections
With Ramzan in full swing and national elections just weeks away, Kolkata is experiencing a significant surge in community iftar gatherings organized by political parties and their leaders. Traditionally, these events are held closer to Eid-ul-Fitr, but this year they have commenced in the very first week of the holy month. This shift highlights both the deep social significance of Ramzan and the calculated outreach efforts by political figures aiming to connect with voters.
Strategic Timing to Bypass Election Code
One of the primary drivers behind this early start is the impending announcement of elections, which will trigger the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Once the MCC is in effect, political activities face strict regulations, making large-scale events like iftars more challenging to organize. Mohammad Tabrez, joint secretary of the Trinamool Congress minority cell in central Kolkata, explained, "Normally, community iftars are organized more towards the festival of Eid. But this time, it started from the beginning of the month as elections can be announced any moment."
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), which traditionally hosts a major iftar gathering at Park Circus Maidan attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, held its event within the first week of Ramzan this year. A Trinamool councillor noted, "Elections may be announced any time now, so it might not be possible to organize the annual iftar then, as the MCC will come into effect."
Cross-Community Outreach and Political Significance
In Kolkata, iftar gatherings are known for bringing together people from various faiths, serving as a platform for community engagement. Serajul Karm of the south Kolkata minority cell emphasized, "Iftar is a way of outreach to the community, and various leaders of the party attend them in their respective areas. People from all communities are invited to break bread together." These events are crucial for politicians, as they attract locals and provide an opportunity to build rapport ahead of the polls.
The Congress party also hosted its annual iftar on Sunday, drawing numerous leaders and workers. Mohammad Mukhtar, a Congress functionary, described it as "an annual ritual where party workers and leaders break bread together."
Widespread Participation Across the City
Across Kolkata, Members of Parliament, Legislative Assembly members, and councillors have been actively attending multiple iftar gatherings in different neighborhoods. A Trinamool MLA shared, "Different functionaries and branches of the party have been organizing iftar and inviting the politicians. Elections are round the corner, too, so I cannot miss any invitation." This widespread participation underscores the strategic importance of these events in the lead-up to the elections, blending religious observance with political mobilization.
