Bengal elections 2026 : JUP Releases First Candidate List for Bengal Polls, Fields Candidate Against Mamata Banerjee

The Janata Unnayan Party (JUP), led by expelled Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Humayun Kabir, has announced its first list of 15 candidates for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. The party also revealed its ambitious plan to contest a total of 182 seats across the state.

This development marks a significant step for JUP as it seeks to establish itself as a new political force in West Bengal. The announcement comes months after Kabir’s expulsion from the Trinamool Congress, following controversies that kept him in the political spotlight.

Focus on Minority-Dominated Regions

The first list includes candidates from key constituencies in Malda and Murshidabad districts. These regions have a significant minority population and are considered politically sensitive. Political observers believe that JUP is aiming to build a strong base in these districts.

Kabir stated that the full list of candidates will be released on March 22, 2026. He emphasized that the party is committed to offering a credible alternative to existing political options in the state.

Bhabanipur Seat Draws National Attention

One of the most notable announcements is JUP’s decision to contest the high-profile Bhabanipur seat. The constituency is currently held by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Kabir revealed that his party will field Poonam Begum, a non-Bengali Muslim candidate, against Banerjee. This move is expected to intensify the political contest in Bhabanipur, which is already witnessing a high-stakes battle.

The seat is also likely to see strong competition from Suvendu Adhikari of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). As a result, Bhabanipur has become one of the most closely watched constituencies in the upcoming elections.

Possible Alliance with AIMIM

Kabir also hinted at a potential alliance with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, led by Asaduddin Owaisi. The two parties may collaborate on select seats to strengthen their electoral prospects.

Political analysts suggest that such an alliance could impact the minority vote share, particularly in districts like Murshidabad and Malda. JUP’s strategy appears to focus on consolidating these votes while presenting itself as an alternative to TMC.

Kabir to Contest from Two Seats

Humayun Kabir himself will contest from two constituencies in Murshidabad district—Rejinagar and Naoda. These areas are considered his strongholds. In the previous election, Kabir had won from Bharatpur as a TMC candidate.

This time, however, he has chosen to shift his focus and contest from different seats under the JUP banner. His decision reflects a strategic attempt to expand his political influence in the region.

Candidates Announced Across Districts

The party has named candidates for several constituencies in Malda district. These include Royal Islam from Ratua, Abdul Minaz Sheikh from Maltipur, Muskura Bibi from Baishnabnagar, Abu Shahid from Manikchak, and Nasimul Haque from Sujapur.

In other areas, Syed Khubaib Amin has been fielded from Bharatpur, Anupam Rohadgir from Behala East, Imtiaz Molla from Farakka, and Bijoy Sheikh from Hariharpara. Additionally, Bapan Ghosh will contest from Purba Bardhaman’s Purbasthali North, while Yasin Haider will represent Kandi.

These selections indicate that JUP is focusing on both experienced and new faces to strengthen its electoral presence.

Political Strategy and Challenges

JUP’s entry into the electoral race adds a new dimension to West Bengal politics. The party appears to be targeting TMC’s traditional vote base, especially among minority communities.

Experts believe that fielding a Muslim candidate in Bhabanipur could influence voting patterns. It may also create challenges for TMC in retaining its support base in certain constituencies.

However, JUP faces significant challenges as a relatively new party. Competing against established players like TMC and BJP will require strong grassroots support and effective campaign strategies.

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