Kolkata, March 26: Former BJP MLA Arindam Bhattacharya has decided to contest the upcoming elections independently after being denied a party ticket in Shantipur, West Bengal. A campaign supporting him has gained momentum, with messages written on walls throughout the area, sparking considerable discussion among locals.
Speaking to reporters, Bhattacharya expressed his gratitude towards those who have participated in the wall writing campaign, referring to them as his “younger brothers.” He stated, “I know each one of them, and this work is still ongoing. On one hand, I could tell them not to do this, but on the other hand, I could encourage them to continue. There was a special hope in the hearts of the people that has not been fulfilled, which is why this campaign is underway. It’s not just one or two people involved; there are thousands.”
Bhattacharya, a proponent of the ‘self-reliance’ principle he introduced when joining the BJP in 2021, mentioned his intention to directly ask the public for their support. “If they confirm that there is indeed a need for ‘self-reliance,’ then I will move forward to contest the elections,” he added.
He also criticized Jagannath Sarkar, the sitting MP from the Ranaghat constituency, for boasting about his victory in 2021, stating, “I worked hard to ensure the BJP candidate’s win in Shantipur. However, after winning, that person claimed, ‘I have become a hero, I achieved victory.’ He has disregarded the votes of the common people and disappointed the party workers who supported him against the ruling party.”
Bhattacharya reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Shantipur, stating, “I have stood with the people in the past, and I stand with them today.” The wall writing campaign, which is being conducted without any electoral symbols, has become a significant topic of conversation locally. Residents believe that Bhattacharya’s independent candidacy could create a new dynamic in the region’s politics.