Elections – BJP Sets Aggressive Seat Target in Key Kolkata Constituencies
Elections – Union Home Minister Amit Shah has laid out a challenging goal for the Bharatiya Janata Party’s West Bengal unit ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. Addressing party workers on December 31, 2025, he urged them to secure at least 20 of the 28 Assembly seats spread across four Lok Sabha constituencies—Dum Dum, Kolkata North, Kolkata South and Jadavpur. These constituencies will vote in two phases scheduled for April 23 and April 29. Notably, the BJP has failed to win any Assembly seat in these regions in elections held since 2016.
Recent Electoral Performance and Challenges
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP’s presence in these constituencies remained limited. The party managed to take a narrow lead in only two Assembly segments—Jorashanko and Shyampukur—both located within Kolkata North. In the remaining 26 segments, the ruling Trinamool Congress maintained a clear advantage, underscoring the BJP’s uphill task in the region.
Voter Roll Revision Alters Political Landscape
A significant factor reshaping the electoral scenario is the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The process led to the removal of nearly 91 lakh names statewide. Of these, over 63 lakh were categorized as absent, shifted, deceased or duplicate, while another 27 lakh remain under scrutiny. This large-scale revision has changed the voter base in several constituencies, potentially influencing electoral outcomes.
In Kolkata North and Kolkata South, the number of deleted voters is substantial. Analysts point out that in some Assembly segments, the number of removed voters exceeds the victory margins recorded by the Trinamool Congress in the 2024 general elections. This shift could make previously comfortable seats more competitive.
Sharp Decline in Voter Numbers
Kolkata North, which includes seven Assembly segments such as Chowringhee, Entally and Maniktala, has witnessed the steepest reduction in voter numbers. The electorate dropped by around 30 percent, from over 15 lakh to just above 10.5 lakh voters. Kolkata South, comprising areas like Bhabanipur and Ballygunge, recorded the second-highest decline at approximately 27.5 percent.
According to Election Commission data, more than 6.29 lakh voters categorized under ASDD were removed from these two constituencies alone. The scale of these changes has drawn attention from both major political parties.
Political Implications and Party Strategies
The BJP views the revision process as an opportunity to strengthen its support base, particularly among Hindu voters. Party leaders believe the updated rolls could reduce the influence of traditional vote banks that have favored the Trinamool Congress.
On the other hand, political observers note that the developments have caused concern within the ruling party. With tighter margins expected, the contests in several constituencies are likely to become more unpredictable.
Focus on High-Profile Contests
One of the most closely watched battles is expected in Bhabanipur. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to face BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in what could become a high-stakes contest. In the 2021 by-election, Banerjee secured a decisive victory from this seat with a margin exceeding 58,000 votes. However, the reported removal of nearly 50,000 voters in the constituency may alter the dynamics this time.
Bhabanipur has a mixed demographic profile, with minority voters accounting for roughly one-fifth of the electorate. Changes in voter composition could therefore play a crucial role in determining the final outcome.
Preparations and Election Commission Assurance
In response to the evolving situation, Mamata Banerjee has conducted several meetings with senior party leaders to review preparedness and fine-tune campaign strategies. Key figures in the party have been involved in assessing ground realities and mobilizing organizational resources.
Meanwhile, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has emphasized that the Election Commission is committed to ensuring a fair electoral process. He assured officials that all necessary steps would be taken to conduct elections free from fear, violence, or undue influence.
The Supreme Court has also clarified that voters cleared by tribunals before the respective phase deadlines will be eligible to cast their votes, leaving room for further adjustments in the final voter count.
As campaigning intensifies, the revised voter lists and shifting political equations are expected to play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of these crucial Assembly seats