Mamata gives in to sectarian demands, will sacrifice Hindu MLAs in 2026 polls

The increasing traction of the BJP's polarisation strategy on Hindus for the 2026 Assembly polls in West Bengal has triggered a reaction among Muslims.

- SUPROTIM MUKHERJEE

It has forced Muslims to band together in support of Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress. However, this support will come at a price for Mamata Banerjee.

According to sources, in many minority-dominated seats, keeping demands of the minority community leaders in mind, the Trinamool Congress has decided to replace its sitting Hindu MLAs and nominate Muslim candidates in their place.

"In each and every interaction with the Muslim community leaders, Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is being requested to nominate more members from the community," said a Trinamool Congress leader.

Trinamool Congress sources say that two surveys undertaken in the recent past have revealed voter dissatisfaction with many incumbents.

"Realising that Didi (Mamata Banerjee) has little choice, minority leaders and even party leaders who are Muslim are pushing for greater representation of their community," said a party leader. Already 35 seats have been identified in which the incumbents will be shown the door.

According to sources, among the constituencies in which incumbents will be shown the door are Islampur, Minakhan, Sandeshkhali, Canning Paschim, Magrahat Purba, Falta, Nalhati, Mangalkot-all of which have substantial Muslim populations.

In many seats, the reason for voter dissatisfaction stems from factors such as non-performance and old age.

Charges of involvement in the multi-crore jobs for cash scam has forced the Trinamool to look for fresh candidates for Behala Paschim, Mekhliganj and Burwan seats. The incumbents in these seats are former Education Minister Partha Chattopadhyay, Paresh Chandra Adhikari and Jiban Krishna Saha.