BJP Releases First List of 144 Candidates for Bengal Assembly Polls 2026
News Mania Desk/ Report by Ajay Chowdhury -16th March 2026
In a bold political move ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday released its first list of 144 candidates, signalling an aggressive start to the electoral battle against the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).
Suvendu Adhikari to Contest from Two Seats
The most striking decision in the list is the nomination of Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari from two constituencies. Along with his political stronghold Nandigram, Adhikari will also contest from Bhabanipur, the constituency currently represented by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Political analysts view the decision as one of the BJP’s most aggressive electoral strategies, potentially setting up a high-stakes political confrontation with Mamata Banerjee.
Dilip Ghosh Fielded from Kharagpur Sadar
In another key announcement, former state BJP president Dilip Ghosh has been nominated from Kharagpur Sadar.
The move is widely interpreted as an effort by the BJP to energise its grassroots cadre and consolidate support in the Jangalmahal region, where Ghosh has traditionally enjoyed strong backing.
Timing of the Announcement
The candidate list was released just 24 hours after the Election Commission announced the poll schedule, reflecting the party’s readiness for the electoral contest.
The announcement also follows the massive rally addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Brigade Parade Ground, where he called for political change in the state and criticised the TMC government.
West Bengal Poll Schedule
The 294-member West Bengal Legislative Assembly will go to the polls in two phases:
- Phase 1: April 23, 2026
- Phase 2: April 29, 2026
- Counting of Votes: May 4, 2026
High-Stakes Political Battle
With the BJP releasing its first candidate list early and fielding key leaders from strategically important constituencies, the BJP vs TMC contest is expected to be one of the most intense elections in the state’s recent political history.
The possibility of a Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari rematch—not just in Nandigram but potentially in two constituencies—has already heightened political excitement across the state.
