Speaking to reporters, Kabir said he had spoken to AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, who allegedly told him, “He is Hyderabad’s Owaisi, and I am Bengal’s Owaisi.” Kabir, who represents Murshidabad’s Beldanga, asserted that he would emerge as a “kingmaker” in 2026.
His remarks come days after he laid the foundation stone for a mosque modeled on the Babri Masjid in Murshidabad on December 6 the 33rd anniversary of the mosque’s demolition. The event triggered political controversy, leading to his suspension from TMC on November 28. According to Kabir, nearly ₹3 crore has already been collected for the project through donation boxes and QR code contributions.
Kabir said his party would be launched at Berhampore Textiles Morh in the presence of “one lakh supporters,” though he declined to confirm the party’s proposed name. He also claimed that two sitting MLAs were in touch with him and may switch sides. Discussions on possible alliances with the Left, Congress, and AIMIM, he said, were “underway,” though the Congress leadership has not initiated formal talks. CPI(M) state secretary Mohammed Salim acknowledged preliminary discussions regarding Murshidabad seats.
The mosque project, announced in late 2024, has been at the centre of escalating political tensions. BJP opposed the replica structure, while Congress backed it. Kabir further inflamed the controversy by warning of retaliation if attempts were made to stop construction.
Kabir has previously drawn criticism for provocative statements, including a threat to Hindu residents during the 2024 Lok Sabha campaign, prompting an Election Commission notice. As he prepares to launch his new outfit, political observers expect the Murshidabad region already polarised to become a focal point in the run-up to the 2026 elections.
