Kabir, speaking to reporters, said the community seeks independent representation. "In 2026, the minority vote will come to us. Mamata Banerjee will not get it," he declared, revealing plans to field up to 200 candidates, nearly 90 of them Muslims.

He accused both TMC and BJP of pursuing Hindu-centric politics, positioning himself as a Muslim leader if polarisation intensifies. Kabir alleged police harassment linked to his Babri-style mosque initiative in Murshidabad, questioning differential treatment compared to Banerjee's 'Durga Angan' project.

His son Robin's brief detention Sunday on assault charges fueled claims of targeted action, including property surveys. Kabir warned of strong opposition to further family targeting.

Suspended from TMC earlier, Kabir's JUP launch signals growing internal dissent and potential realignment in minority-dominated seats. The assertions heighten pre-election tensions, challenging TMC's traditional hold on Muslim votes.