Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to launch the Congress party’s campaign in West Bengal, starting in Malda district, a former Congress stronghold. This move is crucial as the party aims to regain its influence in a state where political dynamics have significantly changed over time.
Gandhi’s return to Malda after almost seven years signifies a renewed effort to strengthen the party’s presence in the region. His primary rally will take place at Kalambagan ground in Chanchal, with an expected turnout of approximately one lakh people.
The Congress is focusing on constituencies like Chanchal and Sujapur, where Gandhi has strong connections with the influential Gani Khan Choudhury family. During his visit, he plans to address the Chanchal rally and conduct another public meeting in Sujapur.
At the Chanchal rally, Gandhi will support four Congress candidates: Mausam Noor from Malatipur, Asif Mehboob from Chanchal, Mostaq Alam from Harishchandrapur, and Mottakin Alam from Ratua. Party leaders see this event as a vital opportunity to showcase strength in four key constituencies in Malda district.
Preparations for the rally are in progress, with the ground almost cleared and a temporary helipad being built nearby for Gandhi’s helicopter arrival. He is expected to travel by road to the rally venue from there.
In a significant strategic move, the Indian National Congress has opted to contest the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections independently, breaking away from its previous alliance with the Left Front. The 294-member Assembly will have elections in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the counting scheduled for May 4.
