The Congress party’s decision to contest the upcoming West Bengal assembly elections independently has raised questions about the viability of this approach in the face of a significant political decline in the region. As it breaks away from its previous alliance with the Left, Congress aims to compete in all 294 constituencies, while grappling with a harsh reality: it did not secure a single seat in the last assembly elections.
In the assembly elections of 2021, the Congress’s vote share fell to a mere 3.03%, marking its lowest performance in the state’s electoral history. In contrast, during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress managed to capture just one seat. Previously, the party had allied with the Left in a bid to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee, adopting a strong anti-Mamata narrative spearheaded by the then party chief, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.
The political landscape of West Bengal underwent dramatic changes in the 2021 assembly elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerging as the main opposition force. The Congress party’s representation dropped significantly from 44 seats in 2016 to none by 2021, while the BJP’s seat tally surged from three to seventy-seven.
Electoral Landscape Ahead of the Elections
As the Congress aims to re-establish its presence, the political environment grows increasingly competitive. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is vigorously campaigning for a fourth consecutive term. Her administration has implemented a series of welfare measures in the interim budget, aimed at shaping the electoral narrative. Notable announcements include an increase in the financial aid provided to women under the ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ scheme, a new portal for social security benefits for gig workers, and a monthly allowance for unemployed youth aged 21 to 40.
The BJP is also ramping up its campaign efforts, with prominent leaders conducting rallies and meetings across the state. They have strategically appointed in-charges for all assembly seats and key constituencies, seeking to amplify their influence as the elections approach.
Congress Faces Internal Challenges
Amid the escalating political activity, Congress appears to be lagging in mobilizing its resources and support base. The recent leadership change, with Shubhankar Sarkar succeeding Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury as West Bengal Congress chief, has been perceived as a potential shift in strategy. However, with Mamata Banerjee showing little interest in forging an alliance, the Congress’s decision to go solo may have become a necessity.
Sarkar has indicated that fortifying the party organization and preparing for the 2026 assembly elections are his primary objectives. However, significant challenges remain, and the party’s readiness for the upcoming elections is uncertain.
Regional Dynamics in the Political Arena
Over the years, Congress has experienced a notable decline in political influence due to the rise of regional parties, which have capitalized on Congress’s diminishing presence. This dynamic complicates any attempts the party makes to reclaim its political ground, often resulting in friction with local parties.
The Congress’s strategy to contest independently in West Bengal raises questions about its future trajectory. While the party has faced considerable setbacks, going solo may offer a chance for revival, provided it effectively energizes its cadre to engage with voters. In a landscape where Congress has remained voiceless in the assembly for years, the decision could serve as a potential model for the party facing similar predicaments in other states. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether this shift will yield desired outcomes in the forthcoming elections.