The 2026 state assembly elections in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Puducherry have delivered a campaign season unlike any in recent memory, each state bringing something entirely its own to the table.
Fish as Political Bait in Bengal
In West Bengal, the discourse took a decisively fishy turn, with fish deployed as political bait and food habits becoming a potent marker in the contest over Bengali identity. BJP candidates were seen campaigning while cradling large katla fish, trying to convince voters the party had no intention of interfering with their dinner plates. This spectacle drew as much ridicule as it did attention, highlighting the cultural significance of fish in Bengali cuisine and identity.
Assam's Campaign Haunted by Grief
Up in Assam, the campaign was haunted by grief. The mysterious death of Zubeen Garg, described across communities as the cultural heartbeat of Assam, cast a long shadow over the election. Political parties sparred over who would deliver justice for the beloved singer, making his legacy a central issue in the campaign.
Kerala: The Weight of One Man's Brand
In Kerala, the election revolved around the weight of one man's brand: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. His leadership and the performance of the Left Democratic Front dominated the discourse, with the opposition struggling to shift the narrative away from his persona.
Tamil Nadu's X-Factor
In Tamil Nadu, after decades of a two-party fight between the DMK and AIADMK, an actor making his debut on the political stage is turning out to be quite the X-factor. This new entrant has disrupted the traditional bipolar contest, adding unpredictability to the race.
These four unique elements have made the 2026 state assembly elections a fascinating spectacle, reflecting the diverse political cultures of India's states.
