Election – Humayun Kabir Alleges Candidate Poaching by Ruling Party
Election – Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) chief Humayun Kabir on Thursday accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of influencing the electoral process by allegedly offering money to several of his party’s candidates to withdraw from the contest. His remarks came amid heightened political activity during the ongoing elections in West Bengal.
Kabir, who cast his vote early in the morning, also encountered protests at a polling station located in Shibnagar village under the Naoda Assembly constituency in Murshidabad district. Supporters of the ruling party gathered near the booth, raising slogans against him and accusing him of working in favor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The situation briefly turned tense as demonstrators surrounded his vehicle, prompting concern among local officials.
Protest at Polling Booth Raises Tension
Eyewitnesses reported that the protest was led by local leaders associated with the ruling party. Demonstrators chanted “go back” slogans as Kabir arrived at the booth. Security personnel and election officials were present at the site and ensured that the situation did not escalate further.
Kabir, currently an MLA from Bharatpur in Murshidabad district, had formed his own political outfit after being suspended from the Trinamool Congress in December last year. His suspension followed controversial remarks that had drawn criticism within the party.
Allegations of Financial Inducements
Earlier in the day, Kabir claimed that his party had faced significant setbacks due to alleged financial inducements offered to its candidates. According to him, around 27 candidates from AJUP had withdrawn from the race after being approached with monetary offers ranging between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 30 lakh.
He stated that his party initially intended to contest 142 seats but is now participating in elections in only 115 constituencies. Kabir described the situation as a serious concern for the fairness of the democratic process, alleging that such practices undermine the credibility of elections.
Claims of Political Strategy and Appeasement
In addition to allegations of candidate poaching, Kabir also criticized the state leadership, accusing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of engaging in what he described as political appeasement aimed at specific communities. He argued that such strategies were influencing voter sentiment and shaping the broader political landscape of the state.
Kabir’s remarks reflect the growing intensity of political rivalry in the region, where multiple parties are vying for influence. While the ruling party has not officially responded to these specific allegations, leaders have previously dismissed similar claims as politically motivated.
Reported Clash Involving Party Workers
Meanwhile, members of the AJUP alleged that one of their booth-level leaders was attacked at his residence by individuals associated with the ruling party. According to party representatives, the incident created panic in the area before central security forces intervened to restore order.
Officials confirmed that security personnel were deployed promptly and managed to bring the situation under control. No major injuries were reported, but the incident added to the day’s tensions.
Awaiting Electoral Outcome
Speaking about the broader political scenario, Kabir indicated that the final results would provide clarity on the actual support base of various parties. “The outcome on May 4 will reveal the true political picture,” he said, suggesting that current developments are only part of a larger unfolding narrative.
As polling continues across constituencies, authorities remain focused on maintaining law and order while ensuring that the electoral process proceeds smoothly. Observers note that allegations and counter-allegations are common during elections, but their impact on voter perception often becomes clearer once results are declared.