The upcoming Lok Sabha election will witness an intriguing showdown between a divorced couple. Sujata Mondal, representing the Trinamool Congress, will go head-to-head against her former husband Soumitra Khan, fielded by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), for the Bishnupur seat in Bankura district.
Background:
The marital discord between Sujata Mondal and Soumitra Khan unfolded against the backdrop of the fiercely contested 2021 assembly election in West Bengal. Amidst the political fervour, Mr Khan publicly announced their divorce as Ms Mondal ventured into politics as a member of the Trinamool Congress.
Political Journey:
Soumitra Khan, a prominent figure in Bishnupur, had previously been aligned with the Trinamool Congress before switching allegiance to the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election. During his tenure with the Trinamool, his then-wife actively campaigned on his behalf. However, their political paths diverged with their relationship, culminating in this electoral face-off.
Trinamool’s Strategic Moves:
The Trinamool Congress, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has made significant strides in its candidate selection for the upcoming election. By nominating Sujata Mondal to contest against her former spouse, the party has demonstrated its resolve to assert dominance in West Bengal’s political landscape.
Congress Discontent:
The unilateral announcement of candidates by the Trinamool has stirred discontent among other political players, notably the Indian National Congress. Despite expressions of willingness for collaboration, the Congress has voiced dissatisfaction over the lack of a mutually agreed seat-sharing arrangement.
New Faces and Alliances:
Trinamool’s candidate list includes several fresh entrants, including renowned cricketers Yusuf Pathan and Kirti Azad. Yusuf Pathan’s candidacy in Baharampur against Congress stalwart Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury underscores the complex dynamics of regional and national alliances.
Chowdhury’s Critique:
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a five-time MP from Baharampur, has been vocal in his criticism of Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress. He accuses the party of cosying up to the BJP and questions its commitment to the larger opposition coalition.
Conclusion:
The electoral battleground in West Bengal is set for a riveting contest, with personal histories intertwining with political ambitions. The clash between Sujata Mondal and Soumitra Khan symbolizes the intricate tapestry of relationships and rivalries that define the state’s political landscape. As the countdown to the election begins, all eyes are on Bengal to witness the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
-Prisha Jaiswal