Trinamool Congress Accuses BJP of Rs 1,000 Crore Vote-Buying Scheme with Ex-Lawmaker
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Kolkata, April 9 (NationPress) The Trinamool Congress has leveled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), claiming they have struck a Rs 1,000 crore agreement with former legislator Humayun Kabir and his newly-established Aam Aadmi Unnayan Party (AAUP). This alleged deal aims to fracture minority votes in various assembly constituencies across West Bengal, where AAUP candidates are set to contest in the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections, in collaboration with Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM.
During a press conference, key ministers Firhad Hakim, Aroop Biswas, and Trinamool's state General Secretary Kunal Ghosh unveiled an audio recording purportedly featuring Kabir discussing these matters with an unknown individual.
While IANS has not verified the audio clip's authenticity, the timing of its release coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's extensive campaign rally in Haldia, East Midnapore district—the first of three rallies scheduled for that day.
In the leaked audio, Kabir allegedly stated that if the BJP could secure a significant number of Hindu votes, he would play a crucial role in dividing the Muslim electorate, aiming to oust the Trinamool from power in the state.
He further assured the unidentified interlocutor of his and his party's complete support for the new BJP Chief Minister, should the party prevail in West Bengal.
Kabir was also heard mentioning his ongoing communication with Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
Hakim cautioned Kabir against underestimating minority voters, stating, "He may sell his principles to the BJP for financial gain, but the common minority voters will never succumb to such tactics."
As of now, Kabir has not publicly responded to these allegations.