Humayun Kabir formally launched his new party,
Janata Unnayan Party (JUP)**, on December 22, 2025, during a large public meeting in Beldanga, Murshidabad. The party's name combines "Janata" (common people) and "Unnayan" (development), emphasizing focus on the welfare of ordinary citizens and deprived sections.
Kabir stated, "My party will work solely for the development of common people. We will prioritize progress over religious controversies." He revealed his preferred election symbols as 'Table' (first choice) and 'Twin Roses' (second), noting that he had received the 'Table' symbol when contesting as an independent in 2016.
Bold Claims for 2026 Assembly Elections With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections in sight, Kabir made ambitious declarations. He said his party is ready to field candidates on all 294 seats if needed. "We will contest at least 90-135 seats and play the role of kingmaker in government formation. No party will get a majority without my support," he confidently asserted.
He appealed to all anti-TMC and anti-BJP forces to unite, exploring alliances with Congress, Left parties, ISF, and others, while making it clear his primary goal is to dislodge Mamata Banerjee's TMC government.
Echoes of the Babri Masjid Controversy The launch comes in the wake of the Babri Masjid-style mosque controversy in Murshidabad. On December 6, 2025—the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition in Ayodhya—Kabir laid the foundation stone for the mosque in Beldanga. His provocative statement, "If Babri can be demolished in Ayodhya, we can rebuild it here," sparked massive outrage, leading to his suspension from TMC.
The project includes a hospital, guesthouse, and meeting hall. Kabir described it as a commitment from the Muslim community that will be fulfilled. The BJP labeled it vote-bank politics, while TMC called it an anti-party act.
A New Chapter from Murshidabad Starting from Muslim-majority Murshidabad, the party aims to consolidate minority voters. Kabir, the sitting MLA from Bharatpur, plans to contest from Rejinagar and Beldanga as well. The launch rally saw huge crowds under tight security.
How much impact this new party will have in West Bengal politics will be decided in the 2026 elections. However, Humayun Kabir's bold entry has already sent warning signals to both TMC and BJP!
Sajjadali Nayani✍
