Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday sharply criticised Mamata Banerjee, alleging that her political approach has indirectly strengthened the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal.
Speaking in Kolkata, the AIMIM chief accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of securing Muslim votes without delivering meaningful development for the community.
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“People in Bengal feel suffocated. They are looking for a genuine political alternative,” Owaisi said.
AIMIM Joins Hands with AJUP Ahead of Polls
Owaisi announced a formal alliance with Humayun Kabir, leader of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party.
According to him, the coalition aims to represent marginalised groups and challenge existing political dynamics in the state.
“Our alliance is meant to stop the exploitation of weaker sections and empower them politically,” he stated.
He further emphasised that strengthening Muslim leadership in West Bengal remains a key objective of the partnership.
Alliance to Contest 182 Seats
Humayun Kabir confirmed that the AIMIM-AJUP alliance plans to contest 182 out of the 294 assembly constituencies.
Kabir expressed confidence that the coalition could play a crucial role if the election results in a fractured mandate.
He positioned the alliance as a potential kingmaker in government formation.
Owaisi Responds to BJP Vote Split Concerns
Addressing concerns that AIMIM’s entry could divide anti-BJP votes, Owaisi dismissed the argument.
“In a democracy, people are free to vote for the party of their choice,” he said.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates over vote fragmentation in multi-cornered contests.
Kabir had floated AJUP after being suspended from the Trinamool Congress following controversy surrounding his proposal to construct a Babri-style mosque in Murshidabad.
The development added a new dimension to the state’s already complex political landscape.
Bengal Election Schedule Announced
The West Bengal Assembly elections will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
With multiple alliances and sharp political exchanges, the contest is expected to be closely watched across the country.
