The Chopra assembly constituency in West Bengal is gearing up for a high-stakes three-cornered contest in the 2026 state assembly elections. The key contenders include Hamidul Rahaman from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Shankar Adhikari representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Zakir Abedin of the Indian National Congress (INC). Several other candidates are also in the fray, making the electoral battle even more competitive.
Background of Chopra Constituency
Located in the Uttar Dinajpur district, Chopra is a significant seat with a diverse electorate. The constituency has witnessed fluctuating political fortunes over the years, with parties like TMC, BJP, and Left Front having tasted victory in different elections. The 2021 assembly election saw the TMC candidate emerge victorious, but the BJP put up a strong fight, narrowing the margin significantly.
Key Candidates and Their Campaigns
Hamidul Rahaman (TMC): The sitting MLA, Rahaman is banking on the development projects initiated by the Mamata Banerjee government. His campaign focuses on women empowerment schemes, infrastructure improvements, and social welfare programs. He is also highlighting the TMC's stance on local issues like flood control and job creation.
Shankar Adhikari (BJP): Adhikari, a former TMC member who switched to the BJP, is leveraging his local connections and the party's national agenda. His campaign emphasizes corruption-free governance, national security, and the implementation of central schemes like Ayushman Bharat and PM-KISAN. He is also targeting the TMC over alleged administrative failures.
Zakir Abedin (Congress): Representing the Congress, Abedin is trying to revive the party's fortunes in the region. He is focusing on issues like unemployment, inflation, and minority rights. The Congress is also banking on its alliance with the Left Front to consolidate opposition votes against both TMC and BJP.
Electoral Dynamics
The Chopra seat has a significant Muslim population, which traditionally leans towards the TMC or Congress. However, the BJP has been making inroads among Hindu voters and some Dalit communities. The 2026 election is expected to be a litmus test for the TMC's popularity in the region, especially after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections where the BJP performed well in several parts of West Bengal.
Previous Election Results
In the 2021 assembly elections, the TMC's Hamidul Rahaman won the seat with a margin of over 10,000 votes, defeating the BJP's candidate. The Congress and Left Front candidates finished third and fourth respectively. However, the BJP's vote share increased significantly compared to the 2016 elections, indicating a shift in voter preferences.
Campaign Issues and Public Sentiment
Key issues dominating the campaign include local infrastructure, particularly roads and drainage, unemployment among youth, and the implementation of central schemes. The TMC is highlighting its track record in building schools and health centers, while the BJP is criticizing the state government for alleged corruption and law and order problems. The Congress is focusing on the rising prices of essential commodities and the need for better agricultural support.
Voter Turnout and Predictions
Political analysts predict a high voter turnout in Chopra, with all major parties mobilizing their bases. The TMC has a strong organizational structure in the region, but the BJP's aggressive campaigning and the Congress-Left alliance could split votes. The final outcome is expected to be close, with the TMC holding a slight edge due to incumbency advantages.
As the election date approaches, all candidates are intensifying their door-to-door campaigns and public meetings. The Chopra assembly election 2026 is shaping up to be a crucial battle that could influence the overall political landscape of Uttar Dinajpur district.
