Suspended Trinamool Congress legislator Humayun Kabir has sparked a fresh political storm in West Bengal by declaring that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will not return to power after the 2026 Assembly elections. Speaking to the media following his suspension from the party, Kabir said that Banerjee would become an “ex–Chief Minister” once the state votes again, adding that she would not be sworn in for another term.
Kabir’s remarks came a day after the TMC removed him from the organisation over his controversial announcement that he intended to construct a replica of the demolished Babri Masjid in Murshidabad. The party leadership accused him of making divisive statements and engaging in activities that could provoke communal tensions, prompting swift disciplinary action.
Following his suspension, Kabir said he would formally resign from the TMC and revealed plans to launch a new political platform by late December. He also indicated that he would contest the 2026 election independently under this new banner. In a series of sharp attacks on the ruling party, the MLA alleged that the state government was practising selective appeasement and criticised policies he claimed marginalised sections of the minority community. He also accused the administration of adopting positions influenced by majoritarian narratives.
The TMC has firmly rejected Kabir’s allegations, stating that his suspension was based solely on his provocative public statements and that his comments do not represent the party’s ideology. Party leaders also downplayed his prediction about Banerjee’s political future, calling it an attempt to gain relevance after disciplinary action.
Kabir’s outburst adds to the already tense political atmosphere in West Bengal ahead of the 2026 polls. His departure from the TMC and his plans to establish a new political outfit introduce a new element of uncertainty, especially in districts where he commands local influence.
