KOLKATA 23 NOV: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee seems to have seen glowing red in the growing success of the AIMIM in Bihar. Especially, where the party led by Asaduddin Owaisi bagged five votes. In the just concluded Bihar election .This would explain Mamata’s attempt to wean away a major part of the party to her party fold.
A major group of AIMIM members led by the former state convenor of AIMIM of West Bengal Anwar Pasha joined the TMC on Monday. Precisely, 20 AIMIM leaders joined TMC.
Though, Mamata’s contention is clear that she apprehended that AIMIM will poach into the Muslim vote bank of TMC. In addition, it can become a major hurdle for Banerjee then to come back to power for the third term in the upcoming elections.
SK Anwar Pasha, the former state convener of AIMIM, who joined TMC, said, “We know that Mamata Banerjee is a real secular person. BJP is a major enemy. In Bihar, AIMIM helped NDA win the elections. And here since Mamata is the only secular leader who can take on BJP, we have decided to join her. And strengthen her fight in the communal forces.”
According to Pasha, under any circumstances, they would not allow the Bihar model to be replicated in West Bengal. Moreover, Pasha claims that whatever happened in Bihar was quite disturbing and the damage was done. In fact, the votes were polarised that led NDA to its victory. Also, Mamata not only provided honorarium to the Imams but to the Hindu priests as well. Pasha believes this is a perfect example of a secular leader.
Besides, it may also be mentioned that Owaisi has already said that his party will be contesting for Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal election. And with a major chunk of AIMIM leaders joining hands with TMC now, the remaining AIMIM leaders are looking for other effective strategies to stop poaching of leaders.
Further, Pasha also said that West Bengal is on the verge of a crucial phase today. Especially, when the BJP has gained ground in the state.
Even, Anwar Pasha advised AIMIM chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, to not come to Bengal because the state has no need for him.
“I advise Owaisi to not to come to Bengal. If they (AIMIM) come to Bengal, they will be shown the door,” Pasha added.
Other AIMIM Leaders Claim TMC’s Travesty
According to other AIMIM leaders, Mamata Banerjee’s party cheated on them. Many of the AIMIM leaders were taken to the TMC office without any idea of joining the TMC. Several other leaders feel that these new turncoats have committed a great blunder by joining Mamata’s camp. Also, the leaders believe that the Muslim community already understands how Banerjee has cheated them.
It may be mentioned that Furfura Sharif also has split with several religious leaders. He did come out against Banerjee, forming different political parties.
Asim Waqar, a party leader of AIMIM from Bengal, said, “Our leader is busy at a corporate election in Hyderabad. After the event, he will come to Bengal. And will brief the media on the party’s views.”