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Faith Politics Surges in Bengal as New Party Bid and Mass Rituals Reset 2026 Contest

Murshidabad has emerged as the focal point of temple–mosque mobilisation before the 2026 vote.

Overview

  • Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir on 6 December laid a foundation stone for a mosque modeled on the original Babri structure in Murshidabad under heavy security.
  • Kabir says he will launch a new party on 22 December and field candidates in roughly 134–135 constituencies, targeting Muslim‑influenced seats and positioning for post‑poll leverage.
  • The BJP escalated religious outreach with a massive Bhagavad Gita recital at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Grounds on 7 December and temple groundwork rituals in Murshidabad and Berhampore.
  • The TMC publicly distanced itself from Kabir’s actions, stating it will resist efforts to turn Bengal into a laboratory for polarisation and stressing an inclusive political stance.
  • Analysts note an import of Hindi‑heartland tactics into Bengal as parties test date‑driven symbols and mass religious performances in a state where Muslims comprise roughly 27–30% of the population.