Suvendu Adhikari Raises Religious and Existential Issues in West Bengal Elections
In the lead-up to the West Bengal Assembly elections, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has made significant statements regarding the necessity of change, framing it as essential for the survival of Sanatan Dharma. His comments come as he casts his vote in the first phase of the elections, where he critiques the ruling TMC and highlights the importance of maintaining electoral integrity. With a focus on two key constituencies, Nandigram and Bhawanipur, Adhikari's remarks underscore the high stakes for the BJP in this electoral battle. The first phase of voting is crucial, with the party aiming to retain its influence in North Bengal.
Apr 23, 2026, 11:33 IST
Suvendu Adhikari's Bold Statements Amid Voting
As the first phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections unfolds, prominent BJP leader and opposition head Suvendu Adhikari has stirred the political landscape by addressing the themes of 'religion' and 'existence'. Upon casting his vote on Thursday, Suvendu launched a sharp critique against the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), asserting that the need for 'change' in the state has transcended mere political necessity and has become essential for the preservation of 'Sanatan' Dharma.
In a conversation with a news agency, the current leader of the opposition in the West Bengal Assembly took a jab at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks regarding the Special Intensive Review (SIR) campaign, suggesting that without 'dead or fake' voters, the Chief Minister would never secure a victory.
"Change is inevitable. If we do not see a transformation this time, Sanatan will cease to exist in Bengal," the BJP leader stated before casting his vote. He acknowledged the Election Commission's efforts but noted that there are always some troublemakers present. He mentioned that their polling agent had been arrested and called for immediate stringent action.
Suvendu, who narrowly defeated Mamata in the Nandigram constituency during the 2021 Assembly elections, is contesting from two seats this year: Nandigram and Bhawanipur. While he is seeking re-election from Nandigram, he is also challenging Mamata in Bhawanipur, a stronghold of the TMC.
It is noteworthy that voting is taking place in Nandigram during this first phase, while Bhawanipur will see voting in the second phase on April 29. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
First Phase Voting in West Bengal
In the context of the first phase of the West Bengal elections, voting is occurring across 152 assembly seats in districts such as Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Murshidabad, Nadia, Birbhum, and Hooghly. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has placed districts like Malda, Murshidabad, North Dinajpur, Cooch Behar, Birbhum, and Purba Bardhaman under special surveillance. To ensure a peaceful voting process, over 2,193 Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been deployed by the election authority.
This phase is considered crucial for the BJP, as they secured 59 out of 152 seats in the region during the 2021 elections. The party aims to maintain its dominance in North Bengal, which is vital for their objective of ousting the TMC from power.