The second phase of elections in West Bengal will witness polling in three crucial Lok Sabha constituencies, including Darjeeling, Balurghat, and Raiganj. This phase will determine the fate of two sitting BJP MPs, including Sukanta Majumdar, the BJP state president, who is seeking re-election from Balurghat.
The Darjeeling constituency holds strategic importance due to its proximity to Nepal and the presence of the Chicken’s Neck or Siliguri corridor, a vital connection between northeastern states and mainland India. This picturesque region, renowned for its tea, timber, and tourism industries, is seeing a four-cornered contest. Sitting BJP MP Raju Bista is facing opposition from various quarters, including the Congress, TMC, and CPI (M).
The issue of a permanent political solution for the region has gained momentum, with promises from the BJP for resolution within the next five years. The BJP's alliance with Bimal Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) has added to the political dynamics of the region.
In Raiganj, the contest is among BJP's Kartick Paul, TMC's Krishna Kalyani, and Left-Congress alliance candidate Ali Imran Ramz. Raiganj, once a Congress stronghold, has seen significant political shifts in recent years.
In Balurghat, Sukanta Majumdar is facing a tough challenge from TMC's Biplab Mitra, who is currently a member of the TMC ministry. The Left-Congress alliance candidate Joydep Siddhanta is also in the fray.
Overall, the electoral battle in these constituencies reflects the complex political landscape of West Bengal, with multiple parties vying for dominance. The Election Commission has ensured heightened security measures, with central forces deployed at critical polling stations to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
