Political activity in West Bengal has intensified following the completion of the first phase of polling on April 23. Attention has now shifted to the crucial second phase, scheduled for April 29, where voting will take place across 142 विधानसभा (assembly) seats. These constituencies are largely concentrated in South Bengal and the Kolkata region—areas widely regarded as a stronghold of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).

With high political stakes involved, this phase is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the overall electoral outcome.

High Stakes for BJP and TMC

For the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), breaking into TMC’s traditional stronghold in South Bengal remains a significant challenge. Senior leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, have intensified their campaign efforts in the region.

The BJP leadership has expressed confidence, pointing to strong voter turnout in the first phase as an indicator of a potential shift in voter sentiment. The party aims to replicate its gains from previous elections and expand its footprint in areas where it has historically struggled.

TMC’s Stronghold in South Bengal

The second phase includes key districts such as:

• Kolkata North and South
• Howrah
• Nadia
• North and South 24 Parganas
• Hooghly
• Purba Bardhaman

These regions have traditionally favored the TMC. In the 2021 assembly elections, the party delivered a dominant performance, securing 123 out of 142 seats, while the BJP managed to win only 18 seats. One seat went to the Indian Secular Front.

This overwhelming margin highlights the scale of the challenge facing the BJP in this phase.

Key Leaders and High-Profile Contests

Several prominent political figures are contesting in this phase, adding to its significance. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is among the key candidates, along with senior TMC leaders such as:

• Firhad Hakim
• Chandrima Bhattacharya
• Shashi Panja
• Arup Biswas
• Bratya Basu
• Sujit Bose

One of the most closely watched contests is expected in the Bhabanipur constituency, where Mamata Banerjee is set to face BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. The contest carries added political weight, as Adhikari had defeated Banerjee in the high-profile Nandigram seat during the 2021 elections.

What Makes Phase 2 Crucial?

The second phase is not just about numbers—it represents a battle for political dominance in Bengal’s most influential regions. For the TMC, retaining its stronghold is essential to maintaining its overall lead. For the BJP, making significant inroads here could alter the electoral dynamics and boost its chances statewide.

A Decisive Political Battle Ahead

As campaigning reaches its peak, both parties are focusing heavily on voter outreach, rallies, and local issues. With high-profile leaders in the fray and historically significant constituencies going to polls, the second phase promises to be one of the most निर्णative stages of the election.

The results from these 142 seats will offer a clearer picture of whether the TMC can maintain its dominance or if the BJP can successfully challenge its stronghold in West Bengal.