Ritabrata-led TMC camp names candidates for Bengal bypolls
The rebel faction of the All India Trinamool Congress led by Ritabrata Banerjee announced its candidates for the October 6, 2026 by‑elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar. The move pits the splinter group directly against the Mamata‑Banerjee‑led camp, intensifying a dispute over the party’s name, symbol and organisational control.
- ✓The rebel faction of the All India Trinamool Congress led by Ritabrata Banerjee announced its candidates for the October 6, 2026 by‑elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar.
- ✓The Mamata‑Banerjee faction, on September 13, 2026, fielded Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) for Nandigram and former MLA Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for Rejinagar.
- ✓The nominations come after the TMC’s defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, which triggered a split within the party.
The Ritabrata‑Banerjee faction of the Trinamool Congress disclosed on Monday, September 14, 2026, its nominees for the upcoming by‑polls to the Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly seats. The rebel camp, which has been contesting the party’s name, assets and the iconic “Jora Ghash Phool” symbol, positioned the announcements as a direct challenge to the Mamata‑Banerjee‑led leadership.
Mohammad Eteshamul Haque was named the rebel candidate for Nandigram in Purba Medinipur district, while Safiuzzaman Sheikh will contest Rejinagar in Murshidabad. The Mamata‑Banerjee faction, on September 13, 2026, fielded Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) for Nandigram and former MLA Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for Rejinagar. The Election Commission has already heard arguments from both sides regarding the rightful ownership of the TMC name, organisational machinery, assets and the party symbol.
The nominations come after the TMC’s defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, which triggered a split within the party. The by‑elections now serve as the first major electoral test for the rival factions, with local voters and party workers watching closely to see which group will be recognised as the legitimate successor. Analysts note that the internal rift could provide an opening for the BJP to increase its foothold in the state, while the outcome may reshape the political landscape ahead of future contests.
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| Issuing Authority | The Hindu National |
|---|---|
| Topic Category | POLITICS |
| Jurisdiction | WB State |
| Publication Date | 14 September 2026 |