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Bhabanipur, West Bengal, April 8, 2026:
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination from the Bhabanipur constituency for the upcoming state assembly elections, setting the stage for a high-profile political battle.
High-Voltage Contest Against Suvendu Adhikari
Mamata Banerjee will face a strong challenge from Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly.
This marks a repeat face-off between the two leaders, who previously contested against each other in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021 in Nandigram, where Adhikari emerged victorious.
Background: Bhabanipur Seat Significance
After her defeat in Nandigram in 2021, Mamata Banerjee contested and won a bypoll from Bhabanipur, making it a politically crucial constituency for her.
The seat has now become a symbolic battleground for both the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
BJP’s Strategy and Leadership Support
Suvendu Adhikari filed his nomination earlier, accompanied by senior BJP leaders including:
- Amit Shah
- Samik Bhattacharya
The BJP is focusing on issues like illegal immigration and governance, aiming to replicate its previous success in Nandigram.
TMC’s Campaign Focus
On the other hand, Mamata Banerjee is actively campaigning and highlighting:
- Welfare schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar
- Cultural identity of Bengal
- Criticism of BJP’s policies
Key Welfare Promises:
- ₹1,500/month for women (general category)
- ₹1,700/month for SC/ST women
- ₹1,500/month support for unemployed youth
These schemes remain central to TMC’s voter outreach strategy.
Election Schedule
The West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 will be conducted in two phases:
- Polling Dates: April 23 and April 29
- Counting Date: May 4
A total of 294 assembly seats are up for grabs.
The Bhabanipur constituency is set to witness a high-stakes political showdown between Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari. With both parties intensifying campaigns, the result could significantly influence the political landscape of West Bengal.
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