The political rivalry between BJP’s heavyweight candidate Arjun Singh and TMC strongman Somnath Shyam has reached an all-time low in the run-up to the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections. On Sunday evening, the two leaders exchanged heated barbs, calling each other “thieves” and accusing one another of massive corruption. The verbal spat has electrified the industrial belt of Barrackpore, making it one of the most volatile zones in this election.

Somnath’s ‘Deserter’ Remark: Addressing a rally, TMC leader Somnath Shyam claimed that Arjun Singh had abandoned his original turf, Jagaddal, out of fear of a crushing defeat. “Arjun Singh has fled Jagaddal like a nomad. He knows the people there have rejected him, and now he is trying his luck in Noapara. But even there, he won’t find any refuge,” Somnath remarked.

Arjun’s Explosive Counter: Arjun Singh, currently contesting from the Noapara seat on a BJP ticket, hit back with equal intensity. Rejecting Somnath’s claims, Arjun called him the “biggest thief of Barrackpore.” He went a step further, stating, “I have already sent the police to catch the real thief. Somnath Shyam’s corruption files are ready, and he will soon be behind bars.”

Rising Political Temperature: This personal feud between the former associates-turned-rivals has heightened the risk of pre-poll violence in the North 24 Parganas district. While the electorate watches the drama unfold, political experts believe this high-decibel clash is a struggle for ultimate dominance over the strategic jute mill belt. With both leaders refusing to back down, the battle for Noapara and Jagaddal is set to become a test of raw political muscle.