Why Is Humayun Kabir Calling Himself ‘Bengal’s Owaisi’? How Big Is the Challenge for TMC?

Kolkata: The elections in West Bengal may still be far away, but the political atmosphere has already become heated. At the center of discussion is suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir, who has announced he will directly challenge Mamata Banerjee's Muslim vote bank. Kabir is claiming that he is going to launch a new party in Bengal on the lines of Asaduddin Owaisi of Hyderabad. Not only this, but he has also described himself as the “Owaisi of Bengal.”

Is Humayun Kabir really with Owaisi?

Humayun Kabir says that he has spoken to Asaduddin Owaisi, and he has received “words” that Owaisi is the leader of Hyderabad, while he will become the face of Bengal. He claims that a party committee will be formed in Kolkata on 10th December and the new party will be launched on 22nd December with lakhs of supporters. However, the picture is not that simple. Owaisi has already rejected the news of such a partnership. In such a situation, many questions are being raised on Kabir's claims.

Is this a new trouble for Mamata Banerjee?

Kabir has been in the headlines continuously for the last few weeks. TMC had ousted him after his controversial statements and comments on the foundation stone of Babri Masjid. Now he has talked about directly shaking the roots of Trinamool in the political field. He claims he will contest 135 seats—seats where Muslim voters decide victory or defeat. He clearly said, "I will be a game-changer in the Bengal elections. Trinamool's Muslim vote bank will be destroyed."

Can a 27% vote bank really slip?

The Muslim vote in Bengal is traditionally considered to be with Mamata Banerjee. It is approximately between 27 and 28 percent. Political analysts say that if Humayun Kabir succeeds in making a dent in this vote bank, even by 5-7 percent, then it can become a serious challenge for Mamata Banerjee. But it is also true that forming a new party, setting up an organization, and gathering support on a large scale is not easy. Especially when AIMIM has already distanced itself from the talk of any alliance.

Is there going to be a big change in the politics of Bengal?

Kabir's claims and his political steps can impact the electoral ground of Bengal in the coming months. But how deep this impact will be will depend on their organization, credibility, and hold among Muslim voters. At present it is certain that his entry has definitely created a new stir in the politics of Bengal.