Firhad Hakim Quits As Kolkata Mayor After Nearly Eight Years, Says It’s Time To Step Aside
Senior Trinamool Congress leader Firhad Hakim on Friday resigned from the post of Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, ending a tenure that began in late 2018 and making him the latest senior civic leader in West Bengal to step down from office.
Speaking to reporters after submitting his resignation, Hakim thanked the state leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading Kolkata's civic administration. He said serving the city had been one of the most significant assignments of his public life and that he had always tried to fulfil the role with sincerity.
The veteran TMC leader stated that the mayor's office carries enormous responsibility and requires complete commitment towards the city's residents. He indicated that he no longer felt in a position to continue performing those duties in the manner expected and had therefore decided to vacate the post.
Hakim's exit comes amid heightened political attention after investigators recently visited his residence in connection with an ongoing probe into an alleged signature forgery case. Officials reportedly recorded his statement and collected handwriting samples as part of the investigation.
The resignation has triggered fresh political discussion in West Bengal, with several leaders reacting to the development. TMC leader Madan Mitra described the decision as an emotional moment and praised Hakim's contribution to public life and municipal administration.
Hakim, one of the most prominent faces of the Trinamool Congress in Kolkata, had assumed charge as mayor after being elected by councillors following a leadership change at the civic body. During his tenure, he oversaw several major municipal projects and remained a key figure in the city's administration.
