In a twist ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, on Friday decided to part ways with Humayun Kabir’s party, saying it was uncomfortable with remarks that, in its view, cast doubts on the integrity of Muslims.
The decision marks a shift in the party’s strategy in the state, with AIMIM now choosing to contest independently. The move comes at a crucial time, as Bengal heads into a multi-phase election that is expected to see intense competition across constituencies, especially those with significant minority populations.
In a statement posted on X, AIMIM said Kabir’s comments had exposed the vulnerability of Muslims in the state and made it clear that the party could not remain associated with such views. It announced that the alliance had been withdrawn with immediate effect.
“AIMIM cannot associate with any statements where the integrity of Muslims is brought into question,” the party said, adding that Muslims in Bengal remain “one of the poorest, neglected and oppressed communities” despite decades of governance by parties claiming a secular framework, including the All India Trinamool Congress and earlier regimes.
Humayun Kabir’s revelations have shown how vulnerable Bengal’s Muslims are. That AIMIM cannot associate with any statements where integrity of Muslims is brought into question. As of today, AIMIM has withdrawn its alliance with Kabir’s party. Bengal’s Muslims are one of the…
— AIMIM (@aimim_national) April 10, 2026
AIMIM to contest alone, cites independent voice for marginalised
Reaffirming its electoral approach, AIMIM said it would fight the upcoming polls on its own, without any tie-ups. The party maintained that its goal is to ensure that marginalised communities have an independent political voice rather than depending on alliances.
The development aligns with AIMIM’s efforts to expand beyond its traditional base in Hyderabad, as it seeks to establish itself in multiple states by directly entering electoral contests.
Political observers say the move could impact voting patterns in minority-dominated seats. While critics argue that it may split votes, AIMIM has consistently defended its stand, saying it strengthens democratic representation by giving space to voices that are often overlooked.
Humayun Kabir, who was earlier expelled from the Trinamool Congress after a controversy linked to a proposal on the Babri Masjid in Murshidabad, later formed the Aam Janata Unnayan Party to contest the elections.
Polling for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.