Firhad Hakim, the first Muslim mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, announced his resignation on Friday during a press conference at the civic body’s headquarters. He formally submitted his resignation to Chairperson Mala Roy after receiving approval from Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee. Hakim, who took office on December 3, 2018, stepped down about five months before his term was due to end, citing an inability to work effectively under current conditions.

Hakim explained that his administrative authority had become limited following political changes in West Bengal, with power reportedly shifting to Municipal Commissioner Smita Pandey. Several Trinamool councillors had also complained about reduced autonomy. In his remarks, Hakim thanked Mamata Banerjee for her trust and urged the new chief minister to ensure transparent governance. He reflected on his tenure, highlighting the corporation’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His resignation follows similar moves by the mayors of Bidhannagar and Chandannagar, marking a broader reshuffle in municipal leadership. Observers noted that Hakim’s departure signals the end of Trinamool’s long-standing administrative control over Kolkata’s civic body, though his successor and the future structure remain uncertain.