Owaisi’s party to go solo after Trinamool ‘sting’ row
The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, has ended its alliance with Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) weeks before the West Bengal elections.
The move comes after a controversy triggered by a sting video released by the All India Trinamool Congress, allegedly showing Kabir discussing links with senior BJP leaders—claims he has denied, calling the video AI-generated.
AIMIM cancels campaign, distances itself
Along with breaking the alliance, AIMIM has also cancelled Owaisi’s planned 10-day campaign in the state, where he was expected to share the stage with Kabir. In a statement, the party said it could not associate with remarks that “bring into question the integrity of Muslims.”
AIMIM announced it will now contest the elections independently, positioning itself as a voice for marginalised communities.
The party said Muslims in West Bengal remain among the most “neglected and oppressed,” and emphasised the need for independent political representation.
A political storm erupted in West Bengal after an alleged video of Humayun Kabir surfaced, where he is purportedly heard claiming links with Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and intent to unseat Mamata Banerjee.
The All India Trinamool Congress released the clip and demanded an Enforcement Directorate probe, while Kabir dismissed it as fake.
Political equations shift ahead of polls
The decision is expected to alter political dynamics in the state, especially in constituencies where minority votes play a crucial role.
With alliances shifting and campaigns intensifying, the upcoming elections are likely to see sharper contest lines.
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