What Key Party Panels Did Kharge Approve Ahead of the 2026 Assembly Polls?
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Synopsis
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has set the stage for the 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal by approving key party panels. This strategic move comes as the party navigates potential alliances and seat-sharing arrangements, reflecting the dynamic political landscape in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- Mallikarjun Kharge has approved key committees for West Bengal Congress.
- The committees include Political Affairs and Election Committees.
- Notable leaders have been appointed to these committees.
- The move is significant for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.
- Concerns arise over potential alliances with Trinamool Congress.
Kolkata, Aug 13 (NationPress) The President of Congress, Mallikarjun Kharge, has officially sanctioned the formation of the Political Affairs Committee, Pradesh Election Committee, and Executive Committee for the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) this Wednesday. Additionally, the party has designated new officer bearers and district presidents for its state unit.
Among those appointed to the newly established Political Affairs and Election Committees is Ghulam Ahmad Mir, a senior Congress figure and former minister from Jammu and Kashmir.
Notable leaders from Bengal's Congress, such as the current state president Subhankar Sarkar, ex-MP and former state president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, former Rajya Sabha MP Pradeep Bhattacharjee, along with senior leaders Deepa Das Munshi, Isha Khan Chowdhury, and several others, have been appointed to both committees.
The establishment of these committees is crucial as the state gears up for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
This development arises amidst ongoing uncertainties within the West Bengal Congress regarding potential alliances or seat-sharing strategies for the upcoming elections, particularly as the party's central leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, appears to be leaning towards an alliance with the Trinamool Congress.
A significant concern for state Congress leaders is whether to maintain their existing seat-sharing arrangement with the CPI(M)-led Left Front, ongoing since 2016, or to forge a new alliance with the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming elections.
Officially, the West Bengal Congress President, Suvankar Sarkar, has stated that any decisions regarding alliances or seat-sharing agreements, whether at the national or state level, ultimately lie with the All India Congress Committee (AICC).
West Bengal's elections are anticipated to take place in March-April next year, with the aim of electing all 294 members of the state Assembly.
The ruling Trinamool Congress is aiming for a fourth consecutive term in power.
Notably, Mamata Banerjee was sworn in as the Chief Minister of West Bengal for the third time on May 5, 2021.
Point of View
The Congress party's recent committee formations signal a proactive approach to the upcoming elections. With potential alliances being considered, it's essential for the party to maintain clarity and unity among its leaders while strategizing for a competitive electoral environment.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What committees did Kharge approve for West Bengal?
Kharge approved the formation of the Political Affairs Committee, Pradesh Election Committee, and Executive Committee for the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee.
Who are some notable leaders included in the new committees?
Notable leaders include Subhankar Sarkar, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Pradeep Bhattacharjee, Deepa Das Munshi, and Isha Khan Chowdhury.
What is the significance of these committees?
The formation of these committees is crucial as the party prepares for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections amidst potential alliances.
When are the elections in West Bengal expected to take place?
The elections are expected to be held in March-April 2024.
What concerns do state Congress leaders have?
State Congress leaders are concerned about whether to continue their alliance with the CPI(M)-led Left Front or to shift towards a partnership with the Trinamool Congress.
