TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Bold Challenge: In a significant political development in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Humayun Kabir from Bharatpur constituency has publicly declared his intention to defeat his party colleague, Apurba Sarkar, in the upcoming 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. This announcement has sent ripples through the political landscape of Murshidabad district, raising questions about intra-party dynamics, electoral strategies, and the future of the TMC in the region.
TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Bold Challenge: Background of the Conflict
Humayun Kabir, a seasoned politician with a history of switching parties, has been a member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly since 2021, representing the Bharatpur constituency in Murshidabad. Prior to his tenure with the TMC, Kabir was associated with the Congress party and briefly with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His political journey reflects a pattern of realignment based on personal and ideological considerations.
Apurba Sarkar, on the other hand, is the sitting MLA from the Kandi constituency and serves as the district president of the TMC in Murshidabad. Sarkar has been a prominent figure in the district’s political scene, holding various positions within the party and the state government.
The rift between Kabir and Sarkar is not a recent phenomenon. Over the years, there have been reports of disagreements and power struggles within the TMC’s Murshidabad unit. Kabir’s recent statements have brought these underlying tensions to the forefront.
Kabir’s Public Declaration
On October 26, 2025, Humayun Kabir addressed a gathering in Murshidabad, where he made a bold declaration regarding the upcoming elections:
“In the 2026 Assembly election, in no way will Apurba Sarkar win the Kandi seat.”
Kabir further emphasized his determination:
“If necessary, I will join hands with Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to defeat Apurba Sarkar. I will negotiate seats with him… Having the last word in politics does not matter, but I will make Apurba Sarkar a common man.”
These statements have been interpreted as a direct challenge to Sarkar’s political standing and an indication of Kabir’s readiness to take extreme measures to achieve his goal.
Implications for the TMC
The public feud between two sitting TMC MLAs raises several critical issues:
- Party Unity: The TMC has long prided itself on its organizational strength and unity. Internal conflicts of this nature can undermine the party’s image and cohesion.
- Electoral Strategy: Murshidabad is a key district in the state’s electoral landscape. A divided TMC could provide an opportunity for opposition parties to make inroads.
- Leadership Response: The manner in which TMC leadership addresses this conflict will be crucial. A failure to mediate and resolve the issue could lead to further fragmentation.
Kabir’s Political Trajectory
Humayun Kabir’s political career has been marked by several significant developments:
- Party Switches: Kabir’s transitions between the Congress, BJP, and TMC highlight his adaptability and strategic decision-making based on the political climate.
- Formation of a New Party: In July 2025, Kabir announced plans to launch a new political party, aiming to contest 50–52 seats in the 2026 elections. This move underscores his dissatisfaction with the current political environment and his desire to influence change from outside the established parties.
Apurba Sarkar’s Position
Apurba Sarkar has remained relatively silent in the face of Kabir’s allegations. However, his position as a seasoned politician and district TMC president suggests that he is likely to mount a strong defense. Sarkar’s response will be pivotal in determining the course of this intra-party conflict.
Potential Consequences
The escalating tension between Kabir and Sarkar could have several outcomes:
- Formation of Alliances: Kabir’s willingness to collaborate with Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury indicates a potential realignment of political forces in Murshidabad.
- Voter Sentiment: The public feud may influence voter perceptions, potentially swaying undecided voters or those disillusioned with internal party conflicts.
- Impact on TMC’s Prospects: A split within the TMC could diminish its chances in the 2026 elections, especially if opposition parties capitalize on the situation.
Conclusion
The unfolding political drama between Humayun Kabir and Apurba Sarkar serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the TMC in West Bengal. As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, the party’s ability to manage internal conflicts and present a united front will be critical to its success. The resolution of this dispute will not only shape the future of the TMC in Murshidabad but also set a precedent for handling intra-party dissent in the state’s political arena.
External Links
- Humayun Kabir’s Political Profile
- Apurba Sarkar’s Political Profile
- West Bengal Legislative Assembly Overview
- Upcoming 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly Election Details
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