Motab Sheikh's Inspiring Journey to Victory in West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026

Motab Sheikh's journey in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections is a remarkable tale of resilience. After facing the challenge of having his name removed from the voter list, Sheikh fought a legal battle and emerged victorious. His story highlights the struggles he overcame, from navigating the courts to winning the election by a significant margin. This narrative not only showcases his determination but also serves as an inspiration for many. Sheikh's victory is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 12:37 IST

Motab Sheikh's Remarkable Election Story

In the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, the Congress party secured only two seats, but one of these victories unfolded a captivating narrative. Motab Sheikh, the Congress candidate from the Farakka constituency, not only won the election but also fought a prolonged legal battle against the removal of his name from the voter list. While other candidates were busy campaigning, Sheikh was navigating through courts and government offices. His perseverance paid off, as he emerged victorious as a legislator, despite not being listed as a voter just weeks prior.

Challenges Faced Due to Voter List Removal

Before the election process commenced, Motab Sheikh's name was removed from the voter list during a special intensive revision. This was a significant setback for him, as he could not contest without being a valid voter. Initially, he attempted to rectify this at the local level, but when that proved futile, he approached the Supreme Court. With the elections approaching rapidly, time was of the essence.

Relief from the Supreme Court

Once the matter reached the Supreme Court, a bench led by the Chief Justice directed a newly formed appellate tribunal to review Sheikh's case. Notably, this tribunal was established on April 5, just a day before the nomination process for the first phase of candidates was set to begin. Since voting for the Farakka seat was also scheduled for the first phase, Sheikh had very little time left. However, his timely appeal in the Supreme Court provided him with much-needed relief.

Restoration of His Name

The appellate tribunal thoroughly examined all of Motab Sheikh's documents. There were no discrepancies found in his official papers, including his passport. Even the name of his father was verified without any issues. The tribunal's presiding officer, former Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court T.S. Shivgyaanam, noted that while the election commission cited technical reasons for his removal, they failed to provide a clear explanation of the removal process. Consequently, the tribunal reinstated Sheikh as a valid voter and ordered his name to be added back to the voter list.

A Historic Approval Among Millions

Motab Sheikh's case became particularly noteworthy as he was the first among nearly 2.7 million applicants to have his application approved. Reports indicate that very few cases had been resolved in the appellate process at that time. After his name was restored, Sheikh breathed a sigh of relief and promptly filed his nomination. He then began his campaign, sharing his inspiring story of struggle with the public.

From Struggle to Triumph

The competition in the Farakka constituency was fierce. The BJP candidate, Sudhir Chaudhary, posed a significant challenge, but Motab Sheikh secured victory by over 8,000 votes. This win was not merely an electoral success; it became a narrative of resilience, showcasing how an individual can overcome the odds even after being removed from the voter list. His journey from the courtroom to the electoral arena has now become one of the most talked-about stories in the Bengal elections.