Questions of Bengali identity, the Matua vote, urban discontent and jobs are set to dominate the narrative in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, with parties sharpening their campaigns around these themes. Aggressive outreach and fresh campaign strategies have long marked Bengal’s electoral politics, and this election is expected to be no different as the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and opposition BJP lock horns.
Assembly election will be held in two phases in West Bengal on April 23 and 29, while votes will be counted on May 4, the Election Commission announced on Sunday. Polling will be held in 152 assembly constituencies in the first phase and in 142 seats in the second phase. The state has a total of 294 assembly seats with TMC leader Mamata Banerjee in power since 2011.
Key issues shaping Bengal polls
Bengali ‘asmita’ and sub-nationalism
The TMC has consistently pushed the narrative of Bengali identity, accusing the BJP of targeting Bengali-speaking migrants in states ruled by it. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has led protests and legal challenges against alleged detention and deportation of such migrants. The party continues to use the ‘Bohiragoto’ (outsider) plank to position itself as the defender of Bengali pride.
Related News |
TMC To Contest 291 Seats in West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, Releases Full Candidates List – Check Details
Matua factor
The Matua community, a Scheduled Caste Hindu refugee group with influence in nearly 50 Assembly seats, remains a crucial electoral bloc. The BJP gained significantly from Matua support in 2021 and retained much of it in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. However, concerns over voter list revisions and identity documentation have created unease in Matua-dominated areas, making the community central to the electoral battle.
Urban anger and anti-incumbency
Urban and semi-urban regions have witnessed growing dissatisfaction, particularly after protests triggered by the 2024 RG Kar Hospital incident. The ‘Reclaim the Night’ movement drew participation from women, youth and civil society, highlighting issues of safety and governance. Alongside corruption allegations, unemployment concerns and perceived institutional control, these factors have contributed to anti-incumbency sentiment against the ruling establishment.
Related News |
'Monthly Pocket Money for Unemployed Youth, Financial Assistance for Women': TMC's Big Promises in Bengal Manifesto
Industry and employment
Industrial growth and job creation remain key talking points. The BJP has accused the state government of driving industries away and failing to attract major investments, calling Bengal an “industrial graveyard.” The TMC, however, points to MSME growth, infrastructure development, a lower unemployment rate and higher projected GSDP growth to defend its record. Job losses in traditional sectors, including the jute industry in districts like Hooghly, Howrah and North 24 Parganas, continue to be a concern.
Social welfare schemes
The TMC is banking on its welfare programmes targeting women, youth, farmers and marginalised groups. These schemes, many involving direct benefit transfers, have yielded electoral gains in the past and are expected to remain a central plank of its campaign.
