West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to contest from Bhabanipur, taking on BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in a major political showdown ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
The political rivalry between Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari is set for a dramatic new chapter as both leaders prepare to face off in the Bhabanipur constituency during the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. The announcement came after the Trinamool Congress released its candidate list, confirming Mamata Banerjee’s candidature from her traditional stronghold. Bhabanipur has long been considered a safe seat for Mamata Banerjee, but the Bharatiya Janata Party has intensified the contest by fielding Suvendu Adhikari from the same constituency. This sets the stage for a direct and high-profile political clash between the two leaders.
The upcoming battle also carries historical significance. In the 2021 elections, Suvendu Adhikari defeated Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram by a narrow margin, making this contest a potential rematch with high political stakes. Analysts believe the Bhabanipur contest could become one of the most closely watched seats in the state, as both parties aim to strengthen their position ahead of the polls. The BJP’s strategy to challenge Mamata in her own stronghold signals an aggressive campaign approach, while the TMC is banking on its established voter base in the region.