New West Bengal Congress Chief Subhankar Sarkar Aims for 2026 Assembly Polls

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 23: Subhankar Sarkar, the newly-appointed president of the West Bengal Congress, has expressed his commitment to uniting party workers and focusing on the upcoming state assembly elections in 2026. Speaking to the media, Sarkar emphasized the importance of strengthening the party's organization.

Sarkar's predecessor, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was known for his strong criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress. Sarkar stated that it is the duty of party workers to oppose anyone who challenges the Congress flag. He clarified that Chowdhury had no personal enmity with the Trinamool Congress but was committed to defending the party's interests.

Sarkar highlighted the need for dialogue between party workers and experienced leaders to strengthen the Congress. He mentioned that his missions include preparing for the 2026 Assembly elections and building a robust organization. He also stressed the importance of having representatives in the Assembly and Parliament to voice the party's concerns.

Referring to Rahul Gandhi's efforts and the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge, Sarkar expressed confidence in the party's future. He believes that the Congress will rise again in Bengal, similar to its success in Telangana, and emphasized the party's commitment to protecting the Constitution and ensuring freedom of speech for every citizen.

Sarkar was appointed as the president of the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee on Saturday, succeeding Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who stepped down after losing to Trinamool candidate Yusuf Pathan in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections from the Baharampur constituency.