Kolkata
oi-Swastika Sruti
The Bhabanipur seat in Kolkata became one of the most talked-about constituencies in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. In a major political development, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by a margin of 15,114 votes.
West Bengal election trends show the BJP leading significantly with around 177 seats over the TMC’s 106, potentially marking the BJP’s first state government and raising questions about a Chief Minister selection and Suvendu Adhikari’s choice between two contested seats.
This result has shocked many, as Bhabanipur was considered a stronghold of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).
A Key Battleground in the Elections
From the very beginning, Bhabanipur remained in the spotlight. Along with this seat, Suvendu Adhikari also contested and won from Nandigram, where he secured victory by more than 9,000 votes.
Both Bhabanipur and Nandigram were seen as crucial seats, drawing attention from political observers and voters across the state.
BJP’s Strong Performance Across the State
This election saw a strong performance by the BJP across West Bengal. The party made significant gains in many districts, with its symbol, the lotus, gaining widespread support.
In several areas, the Trinamool Congress faced heavy losses, showing a major shift in voter preference.
The Nandigram Contest
In Nandigram, Suvendu Adhikari’s main opponent was TMC candidate Pavitra Kar. Interestingly, Kar had earlier been associated with the BJP before joining TMC ahead of the elections.
Despite the competition, Adhikari managed to secure a comfortable win in Nandigram as well.
#WATCH | Kolkata: On TMCs allegations, West Bengal LoP and BJP candidate from Nandigram and Bhabanipur, Suvendu Adhikari, says, “Rone dijiye. Khatam poora khatam…” pic.twitter.com/TW1IGSCZCH
— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2026“>
Who Could Be the Chief Minister?
With the BJP leading comfortably, discussions have begun over the party’s Chief Minister face. While no official announcement has been made, Suvendu Adhikari is widely seen as one of the strongest contenders.
He has played a major role in the party’s growth in West Bengal and is considered a key strategist behind its performance. His experience in both governance and organisation makes him a natural choice in the eyes of many party workers.
However there are other CM candidates:
Samik Bhattacharya
Samik Bhattacharya, the state BJP chief, is another important name. He has played a major role in strengthening the party’s presence and expanding its reach across different communities.
Dilip Ghosh
Dilip Ghosh, a former state president, remains popular among party workers. He led the BJP during key elections and helped the party gain ground in the state.
Nisith Pramanik
Nisith Pramanik has been influential in North Bengal. His role in building the party’s base in the region makes him a possible candidate.
Agnimitra Paul
Agnimitra Paul is known for her active role in party campaigns and protests. She is seen as a strong and vocal leader.
Roopa Ganguly
Roopa Ganguly, a well-known public figure, also remains a potential contender with support among urban voters.
Suvendu Adhikari Contesting from Two Seats
One of the most interesting aspects of this election is that Suvendu Adhikari is contesting from two constituencies-Nandigram and Bhabanipur.
This is allowed under Indian election rules. A candidate can contest from more than one seat, but after winning, they must choose only one and vacate the other.
This situation highlights an interesting aspect of Indian democracy. While candidates can contest from multiple constituencies, voters are allowed to vote only once and from one location.
This contrast often raises questions about fairness and representation, but it remains a legal and accepted practice under election laws.
Which Seat Will He Keep?
As Suvendu Adhikari wins from both seats, he will have to decide which one to retain.
There is a strong possibility that he may choose to keep Nandigram. The constituency holds political significance for him, as it has been central to his political journey and identity.
Bhabanipur, on the other hand, is a new battleground for him. Even if he wins there, it may not carry the same long-term connection as Nandigram.
If he becomes the Chief Minister, retaining a strong and familiar base like Nandigram could be a strategic choice.
BJP wins in Bengal with an historic 207 seats whereas TMC wins only 80 seats.
