Will the Bengal Winter Session Happen This Year?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The uncertainty surrounding the West Bengal Legislative Assembly's winter session raises questions about political engagement amid electoral roll revisions and festive commitments. Could a brief session in January provide a platform for key figures like Partha Chatterjee to re-enter the political scene?
Key Takeaways
- Winter session of the West Bengal Assembly is unlikely to occur this year.
- The ongoing electoral roll revision is a major factor in this decision.
- Former Education Minister Partha Chatterjee might return as an Independent legislator.
- The Assembly last met in September for a special session.
- A brief session may happen in January.
Kolkata, Dec 18 (NationPress) The winter session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly appears to be unlikely to occur in this calendar year. This is due to the pressures stemming from the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls coupled with the approaching festive season, as reported by sources on Thursday.
The second phase of the SIR initiative commenced on Tuesday with the release of the draft voters’ list.
“Firstly, the elected representatives are heavily engaged in SIR-related activities within their respective Assembly constituencies. Secondly, the festive season is about to begin with Christmas on December 25, which will again demand the legislators’ attention for mass outreach in their regions. Considering these factors, it is improbable that the winter session will take place this year,” shared an insider from the West Bengal Assembly secretariat.
Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee has also indicated that he has yet to receive any directive from the state government regarding the session's convening. He mentioned that several legislators have urged that the winter session be postponed due to their participation in the electoral roll revision.
Insiders from the Assembly secretariat suggest that there might be a brief winter session in January next year, followed by an interim Budget session in February.
“However, nothing has been finalized at this moment,” the sources noted.
The Assembly last convened in September this year for a three-day special session.
When the winter session does occur, it is likely to attract attention as former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee may be present for the first time in nearly three years. Chatterjee was apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate in July 2022 in connection with a multi-crore cash-for-school jobs scandal.
Since his arrest, Chatterjee has been expelled from the Trinamool Congress and will attend the session as an Independent legislator. The session is also expected to feature Humayun Kabir, the suspended Trinamool rebel MLA from the Bharatpur Assembly constituency in Murshidabad district, who will also participate as an Independent. Kabir was suspended earlier this month after he decided to proceed with plans to lay the foundation of a Babri Masjid-style mosque in Murshidabad district on December 6, defying the party’s directives.
Point of View
The postponement of the winter session underscores the complexities of managing electoral processes and legislative duties. With key political figures potentially re-entering the fray, this situation is pivotal for understanding the dynamics within West Bengal's political landscape.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the winter session of the West Bengal Assembly likely cancelled?
The session is likely cancelled due to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and the upcoming festive season, which are demanding the legislators' attention.
Who is Biman Banerjee?
Biman Banerjee is the Speaker of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, responsible for presiding over its sessions.
What is the significance of Partha Chatterjee's return?
Partha Chatterjee's anticipated return to the Assembly is significant as it marks his first appearance since his arrest in connection with a cash-for-school jobs scandal.
