Ahead of the crucial 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections, the internal fissures within the BJP have exploded into public view. High drama unfolded at the party’s state headquarters on Muralidhar Sen Lane this Friday as agitated workers shouted slogans of ‘Go Back’ and ‘Boycott Priyanka Tibrewal’ in front of senior leader Shamik Bhattacharya. The protest, centered around dissatisfaction over candidate selection, has left the saffron camp in deep embarrassment.

Cadres Fume Over Priyanka Tibrewal’s Candidacy The resentment stems from reports of Priyanka Tibrewal being considered for a key seat. As soon as Shamik Bhattacharya arrived at the party office, he was surrounded by protesters who raised placards and shouted slogans against her. The workers alleged that the leadership is prioritizing “glamorous faces” over dedicated, grassroots workers who have faced the brunt of political violence in the state.

Brother of Slain Worker Joins the Fray The protest gained significant moral weight with the participation of Biswajit Sarkar, the brother of Abhijit Sarkar—the BJP worker who was killed in post-poll violence following the 2021 elections. Biswajit expressed his deep anguish, stating that the families of martyrs are being ignored while the party promotes individuals who do not connect with the struggle of the common worker. His vocal opposition is being seen as a major blow to the state leadership’s image.

A Challenge for the High Command Shamik Bhattacharya attempted to pacify the crowd, stating that in a large party like the BJP, differences of opinion are natural and will be resolved through dialogue. However, the intensity of the protest suggests that the anger runs deep. With the elections approaching, this open rebellion at the party’s nerve center could severely hamper the BJP’s campaign narrative against the ruling TMC, as internal unity seems to be fraying at the edges.