Dedicated Leader of the Trinamool Congress

A Sad Loss for West Bengal

The political landscape of West Bengal has lost a significant figure with the passing of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Haji Sk. Nurul Islam. On Wednesday, West Bengal Chief Minister and party leader Mamata Banerjee confirmed the news. She expressed her deep condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, highlighting the profound impact of his loss.

Condolences from Mamata Banerjee

In a heartfelt message shared on X, Banerjee reflected on Islam’s contributions. She stated, “I’m saddened by the loss of my esteemed colleague, our Basirhat MP, Haji Sk. Nurul Islam. He was a committed social worker in the remote Sundarban area. Moreover, he tirelessly worked for the upliftment of the impoverished in a challenging region. Consequently, the people of Basirhat will deeply miss his leadership.”

A Prominent Political Career

Haji Sk. Nurul Islam was not only a dedicated social worker but also a prominent Muslim leader in the TMC. He made a significant impact in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Specifically, he won the Basirhat seat by an impressive margin of 333,547 votes, defeating BJP‘s Rekha Patra.

At 60, he successfully combined his role as a politician with that of a successful zari businessman. This blend of professional acumen and passion for public service set him apart in the political arena.

Early Political Journey

Islam began his political journey with the TMC at its inception. He first served as a member of the Gram Panchayat Samiti from Bahera village from 2003 to 2008. This early experience laid a strong foundation for his future roles in politics.

In 2008, he advanced to the Zila Parishad, where he represented North 24 Parganas. His commitment and hard work earned him respect not only within the party but also in the community.

Key Electoral Victories

In 2009, Islam seized the opportunity to contest the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat. He won decisively against CPI‘s Ajay Chakraborty by over 60,000 votes. Furthermore, his influence extended beyond Lok Sabha. He successfully contested the West Bengal Assembly elections in 2016 from the Haroa constituency. Notably, he retained his seat in the 2021 polls.

In 2024, he succeeded the sitting TMC MP Nusrat Jahan. Held the seat since 2019, winning with a remarkable margin of 350,000 votes against BJP candidate Sayantan Basu.

Controversies in His Career

However, Islam‘s career was not without its challenges. Over nearly 25 years in politics, he faced several controversies. For instance, allegations related to inciting communal violence during the 2010 Deganga riots led to an FIR being filed against him. This incident, while significant, did not overshadow his many achievements.

A Lasting Legacy

In conclusion, Haji Sk. Nurul Islam leaves behind a complex legacy. He was a dedicated public servant and a champion for the marginalized. Many will remember his contributions to the TMC and the people of Basirhat. Ultimately, his impact will resonate in the hearts of those he served for years to come.