Tamluk poses toughest challenge for Trinamool since 2009 as BJP targets victory

In the battleground Tamluk Lok Sabha constituency, Trinamool Congress faces its toughest challenge since 2009 when it first won the seat. With BJP fielding a corruption crusader and CPI(M) fielding a young lawyer, the dynamics have shifted in this traditional Trinamool stronghold in the East Midnapore district.

In 2009, Trinamool Congress candidate Suvendu Adhikari emerged as a game-changer by defeating the three-time sitting CPI(M) MP. However, with BJP’s Abhijit Gangopadhyay and CPI(M)’s Sayan Banerjee in the race, the scenario has changed drastically, making this election a tough battle for Trinamool Congress.

With a large number of school-job-deprived candidates from East Midnapore district, the negative impact on Trinamool Congress in the electoral number-game cannot be overlooked. Moreover, Adhikari, now the leader of the opposition in West Bengal Assembly, is determined to extend his influence in the district and wipe out Trinamool Congress.

Gangopadhyay’s crusader image against corruption has garnered popularity, while Banerjee’s advocacy for deprived candidates has earned him respect in civil society. Trinamool Congress’ candidate Debangshu Bhattacharya is banking on his youth factor to connect with voters, but the opposition remains strong, aiming to offer an alternative to both BJP and Trinamool Congress.

Tamluk, with over 15 lakh voters, is a mix of farming and industrial belts, including the important port-cum-industrial hub of Haldia. Traditionally a Left citadel, it turned into a Trinamool stronghold in 2009. Now, with changing dynamics, the question remains whether Suvendu Adhikari can once again be a game-changer, this time in favor of BJP.–IANS