In a move that could reshape Bengal’s parliamentary representation, BJP is set to unveil its Rajya Sabha candidate from West Bengal in early March. Five seats are up for grabs as incumbents’ terms end in late April, sparking intense party-level discussions.
TMC’s assembly dominance ensures victory on four fronts, leaving BJP to fight for the solitary remaining slot. Sources within the BJP’s state unit indicate a shortlist of three prominent names under active consideration.
Actor and BJP loyalist Mithun Chakraborty leads the pack, with Locket Chatterjee – a former MP known for her transition from silver screen to politics – as a strong second. Rounding out the trio is economist Dr. Ashok Lahiri, MLA from South Dinajpur’s Balurghat and a veteran policy expert.
Parallel to candidate selection, BJP leaders are ramping up offensives against the ruling TMC. State chief Dilip Ghosh accused Mamata Banerjee’s regime of systemic corruption and ties to subversive elements. During a media briefing, he detailed ongoing investigations by NIA and ED.
‘Numerous corruption cases are bubbling up, alongside anti-India operations under NIA scanner,’ Ghosh stated. He criticized Banerjee’s dramatic appearance at an ED-raid site at IPAC offices, interpreting it as an attempt to bury explosive truths. ‘Courts will decide, but transparency is key,’ he urged.
Ghosh emphasized growing public frustration with governance failures. ‘People are ready to hold the government accountable soon,’ he forecasted. As BJP strategizes for the Rajya Sabha poll, this blend of candidate buzz and corruption allegations underscores the deepening political divide in West Bengal.