In a strategic move that has redefined the electoral landscape of West Bengal, the Congress party announced its first list of candidates for the 2026 Assembly Elections today, March 29. The most significant development is the return of veteran leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to state politics. After a setback in the Lok Sabha elections, Chowdhury has been fielded from his stronghold, Baharampore. This move is expected to energize the party cadre across Murshidabad and North Bengal.

The highlight of the list, however, is the Bhawanipore constituency, where a titanic clash between TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee and BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari is already brewing. Breaking the duopoly, Congress has named Shadab Khan as its candidate for the seat. By fielding a fresh and articulate face, the party aims to capture the diverse minority and non-Bengali vote bank in the heart of Kolkata. Bhawanipore is now set for a high-voltage triangular contest.

The Congress has declared candidates for 284 seats, opting to go solo after failing to reach a consensus with the Left Front. The list strikes a balance between seasoned politicians like Nepal Mahato and energetic new faces. Adhir Ranjan’s decision to personally lead the battle from the front indicates that the Congress is unwilling to cede ground without a fierce fight. As the campaign heat rises, all eyes will be on whether the “Adhir Factor” can tilt the scales in this crucial 2026 election.