Trinamool candidate withdraws from Nandigram race after Banerjee’s allegations

The Nandigram by‑poll took an unexpected turn on Friday when Trinamool Congress nominee Sanchita Pradhan Das submitted a formal withdrawal of her candidacy. The decision followed a heated exchange with party supremo Mamata Banerjee, who leveled serious accusations against the BJP regarding electoral malpractices.

Banerjee questioned why 4,000 electronic voting machines (EVMs) were reportedly switched on in West Bengal without clear accountability, demanding a post‑election audit. She also reiterated claims that the BJP is leveraging AI technology to influence voter behavior.

Political commentators note that Pradhan Das’s exit could weaken the TMC’s standing in the constituency, potentially opening a pathway for the Congress, now backed by Banerjee, to capture the seat.