In a surprising turn of events, West Bengal’s Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, filed his nomination for the 2026 Assembly elections from Nandigram, revealing a dip in his total assets. Contrary to the usual trend of rising wealth, Adhikari’s affidavit shows his net worth has decreased by over ₹4.18 lakh since 2021, currently standing at ₹85.87 lakh.

The BJP heavyweight, who is contesting from both Nandigram and Bhawanipur, declared that he owns no personal vehicle or gold jewelry. His liquid cash is a mere ₹12,000, while his investments in banks and post offices total around ₹24.57 lakh. His immovable properties, including flats in Tamluk and agricultural land in Egra, are valued at approximately ₹61.30 lakh.

However, the most talking point is the staggering 20-page list of pending criminal cases against him. The charges range from attempt to murder and financial irregularities to serious allegations under the POCSO Act. Despite the legal mountain, the 2011 Rabindra Bharati University graduate remains a key face for the BJP. Whether this “shrinking wealth” and “growing case file” will impact the voters remains to be seen in this high-voltage electoral battle.