AIMIM AJUP Alliance Sparks Congress Attack
- AIMIM AJUP alliance draws Congress criticism in Bengal
- Owaisi alliance seen impacting West Bengal vote share
Hyderabad, March 23: The AIMIM AJUP alliance for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections has triggered sharp reactions from the Congress and other political parties. The development follows AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s announcement that his party will contest in alliance with Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party.
The Congress strongly criticised the move and accused Owaisi of abandoning secular principles. Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput said, “thank you, Asaduddin Owaisi. You have removed your mask — the mask of secularism — and shown the world your true communal face”. He further alleged that Owaisi has acted as the “true companion” of the BJP and exposed himself as its “B-team”.
Meanwhile, Rajput raised questions about the formation of the new alliance. He said, “You have not only shown that you are the B-team of the BJP, but also that you are a true companion of the BJP. People are accusing Humayun Kabir of taking money to form a party. So, are you getting funds from Delhi? The people are very clear that they will show your position in West Bengal as well as in Hyderabad elections,” he told.
Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat also criticised the alliance. He said, “Where there is a division of secular votes, it invariably benefits the Bharatiya Janata Party. Owaisi is known for this, and allegations are often made against him. He certainly employs such tactics to ensure votes are divided. That is why we say he works as the B-team of the BJP.” Therefore, the Congress believes the alliance may split votes in key constituencies.
Other parties also reacted to the development. JMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey said, “I feel that now Owaisi has achieved some success in one or two states. He has strengthened the BJP and worked to weaken secular parties and forces, which has boosted their morale. However, I believe he will not fit in anywhere in the context of Bengal’s political situation.” Similarly, JD(U) spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan criticised the political environment in West Bengal.
However, Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav offered a neutral view. He said, “It is Owaisi’s party, and if he is preparing to contest elections, the decision is independent. The party aims to expand its organisation and has a presence in many places. Owaisi has decided to contest, and as it is a democratic party, its leaders carry out their work accordingly.”
Meanwhile, the elections for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will take place in two phases. The first phase is scheduled for April 23, and the second on April 29. The counting of votes will be held on May 4. The AIMIM AJUP alliance is expected to influence vote share in Muslim-dominated constituencies in what is seen as a contest mainly between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP.
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