The counting of votes for the Panihati constituency initiated at 8 am today, with initial trends anticipated shortly thereafter. This election has attracted considerable attention, becoming one of the most scrutinised contests in the state. Panihati, situated in the urban-industrial belt adjacent to Barrackpore in North 24 Parganas, has been a stronghold of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) since 2011. This election cycle, however, has seen heightened interest due to a contest marked by significant public sentiment and high-profile candidates.

Key Contestants and Issues at Stake

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated Ratna Debnath, the mother of a victim associated with the RG Kar Medical College case, making women’s safety and justice prominent themes within this electoral campaign. The inclusion of such a figure has intensified the political discourse surrounding the constituency, drawing both support and criticism during the campaigning phase. Her candidacy has emerged as a significant factor influencing voter sentiment in Panihati.

The AITC has chosen Tirthankar Ghosh to represent its interests, relying on the party’s established organisational structure and committed voter base within the region. The incumbent party is optimistic about retaining its hold on the seat, but the presence of high-profile opponents adds an intricate dimension to the electoral battle. Additionally, candidates from the Left and various smaller parties are contesting, contributing to a multi-faceted political environment that reflects deeper divisions among the electorate.

Moreover, the Left Front has put forth CPI(M) candidate Kalatan Dasgupta, positioning this contest as a three-way competition among the prominent political factions. Despite being a historically strong constituency for the ruling party, the dynamics this time could shift, given the heightened political engagement and activism observed during the election. Campaigning efforts have been robust, with reports detailing protests and vocal expressions from supporters at diverse polling locations.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share