Political momentum has intensified in West Bengal ahead of the assembly by-elections scheduled for two seats. For the Rejinagar assembly constituency in Murshidabad district, the Aam Janta Unnayan Party has fielded Ghulam Nabi Azad, also known as Robin, who is the son of party chairman Humayun Kabir. Azad formally submitted his nomination papers at the district election office in Baharampur in the afternoon. Party chief Humayun Kabir was present alongside his son during the filing and expressed happiness over his entry into the electoral contest.
Nomination Process and Political Activity in Rejinagar
The nomination event in Baharampur drew significant attention from party supporters as Ghulam Nabi Azad initiated his campaign. Humayun Kabir accompanied his son to demonstrate unity and strength within the party ranks. The Rejinagar seat fell vacant following the resignation of Humayun Kabir, who had won the seat in the previous general assembly elections. The Aam Janta Unnayan Party aims to retain control over the constituency by mobilizing local organizational units and conducting outreach across the constituency.
Complete By-Election Schedule and Timetable
According to the schedule established by the Election Commission, voting across both the Rejinagar and Nandigram constituencies will take place on October 6. Counting of votes and official declaration of results are scheduled for October 9. Candidates can file their nomination papers until the deadline of September 16. The scrutiny of submitted nomination documents will occur on September 17, while the final date for withdrawal of candidature has been fixed for September 19.
Political Background of Rejinagar and Nandigram Seats
The two seats facing by-elections carry distinct political histories from the main assembly elections. In the previous general state election, the BJP secured victory in the Nandigram seat, whereas Humayun Kabir's party won the Rejinagar constituency. Subsequently, Suvendu Adhikari vacated the Nandigram seat in order to retain his Bhabanipur assembly seat in Kolkata. Concurrently, the Rejinagar seat was vacated by Humayun Kabir, necessitating fresh elections to fill the legislative representation for both regions.
Congress Party Position and Concerns Over Election Timing
Following the announcement of by-election dates, opposition leaders shared their perspective on the timing. Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury addressed the media regarding the schedule. He stated that the party preferred having the elections held after the Durga Puja festival, which would have offered better logistical feasibility for voters and candidates alike. Chowdhury suggested that the state administration favored an early election window to limit preparation time for opposition parties. Despite these challenges, he confirmed that the Congress party has decided to contest the Rejinagar seat and will announce its candidate shortly.
