From Mamata’s Aide to BJP’s Key Face: Suvendu Adhikari Emerges as CM Contender in Bengal

Kolkata: This time a different wind was blowing in West Bengal. The picture that emerged as soon as the counting of votes started surprised even political experts. In Bengal, where Mamta Banerjee was being praised for decades, this time BJP has done such an upheaval that everyone is left watching.

How big was BJP's victory in Bengal?

BJP got 206 seats in the 294-seat assembly. It may sound like a number, but this has happened for the first time in the political history of Bengal. BJP candidates also won from the booths where TMC workers had dominated for years. This is not just a victory of seats, but a big earthquake in grassroots politics.

Why was the role of Suvendu Adhikari important?

Subhendu Adhikari emerged as the biggest face of this election. In Nandigram he defeated Mamata Banerjee and by a bigger margin than last time. This is the same Nandigram which was once a part of Mamata's political identity. Apart from this, his lead was also in Bhawanipur. Such a strong comeback on two fronts simultaneously — this is what sets him apart from other leaders.

Has Suvendu become a contender for the post of Chief Minister?

The party has not announced any name yet, but the wind is blowing in favor of Subhendu Adhikari. Two seats, ground hold, and high-profile victories like Nandigram — all make him a natural contender. Now it remains to be seen what Delhi's decision says.

Where did Trinamool Congress suffer the most loss?

This election has been no less than a nightmare for Trinamool Congress. The party's organization was strong, the campaign was vigorous - but the public's verdict was different. TMC could survive only in its old strong areas, and had to lose badly in other places.

At what point is the politics of Bengal now?

Changing power does not just mean changing the chair. With it the entire political fabric changes. The new government that will be formed in Bengal will face no less challenges. And Mamata Banerjee, sitting in the opposition, will also not remain silent – ​​that is certain. The coming months will be very important from the point of view of Bengal politics.