The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its first list of 144 candidates for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections on Monday, featuring a major surprise for the Rashbehari constituency. Former Rajya Sabha MP and veteran journalist Swapan Dasgupta has been fielded from this high-profile South Kolkata seat. Dasgupta, who contested from Tarakeswar in the 2021 polls, has been entrusted with the responsibility of reclaiming a key urban bastion for the party.

Rashbehari has long been a stronghold of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), currently represented by Debasish Kumar. By nominating an intellectual and seasoned parliamentarian like Swapan Dasgupta, the BJP aims to appeal to the educated middle-class and elite voter base of Kolkata. The choice signals the party’s intent to counter the TMC’s urban narrative with a face that holds national stature and a clean political image.

Political observers believe that Dasgupta’s candidacy will turn Rashbehari into one of the most-watched battlegrounds in the state. BJP leadership expects that his articulation and deep understanding of Bengal’s culture and politics will resonate with the local residents. Upon the announcement, Dasgupta expressed his gratitude to the party and stated that he is ready to work for the welfare and progress of the people of Rashbehari.