West Bengal Poll Battle Takes Shape: CPI(M), CPI Name Nandigram Candidates

KOLKATA — The Left Front officially announced its candidates for the upcoming by-elections to the Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly constituencies in West Bengal, setting the stage for high-stakes contests scheduled for October 6, 2026. The announcement follows formal notifications issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for the two high-profile seats vacated earlier this year.

According to seat-sharing arrangements within the alliance, the Communist Party of India (CPI) has nominated Shanti Gopal Giri to contest from the Nandigram constituency in Purba Medinipur district. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has fielded advocate Syed Asad Ali for the Rejinagar seat located in Murshidabad district.

Bypoll Context and Electoral Background

The by-elections became necessary following the resignations of incumbent lawmakers. The Nandigram seat fell vacant after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari relinquished the constituency, choosing instead to retain his Bhabanipur seat following the general assembly elections earlier this year. Similarly, the Rejinagar vacancy was triggered by the resignation of Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) founder Humayun Kabir, who had also secured a dual victory during the state polls.

Political analysts note that the Left's early entry into the electoral arena—alongside parallel candidate announcements by the Congress party—adds a dynamic multi-cornered dimension to the upcoming polls. Both constituencies remain critical flashpoints as regional opposition parties attempt to regroup following the formation of the current government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

According to official Left Front statements, ECI scheduling disclosures, and election commission notifications:

• Polling Date: Voting across both constituencies is scheduled for October 6, 2026, with vote counting on October 9.

• Nandigram Nominee: CPI candidate Shanti Gopal Giri named to contest the Purba Medinipur seat.

• Rejinagar Nominee: CPI(M) candidate Advocate Syed Asad Ali fielded for the Murshidabad seat.

• Nomination Window: Filing deadlines extend through September 16, followed by scrutiny on September 17 and withdrawal closures on September 19.

Official Sources Section

• Election Commission of India (ECI) Bypoll Disclosures: Official notification schedules, electoral roll revisions, and constituency vacancy frameworks.

• Left Front Committee West Bengal Releases: Alliance candidate announcements, seat-sharing disclosures, and campaign agendas.

Quote Section

"According to Left Front announcements, the coalition has finalized its nominees to contest the upcoming assembly by-elections, ensuring an active opposition presence in both high-profile constituencies."

Why It Matters

For voters in Nandigram and Rejinagar, the by-elections provide an opportunity to secure direct legislative representation following high-profile resignations. For regional political parties, the contest serves as an early indicator of shifting voter sentiment and organizational readiness across rural West Bengal.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Constituencies: Nandigram and Rejinagar.

• Polling Date: October 6, 2026.

• Left Candidates: Shanti Gopal Giri (CPI - Nandigram) and Syed Asad Ali (CPI(M) - Rejinagar).

• Catalysts: Resignations by Suvendu Adhikari and Humayun Kabir.

FAQ Session

Why are by-elections being held in Nandigram and Rejinagar?

The by-elections were triggered after Suvendu Adhikari vacated Nandigram to retain Bhabanipur, and Humayun Kabir resigned from Rejinagar.

Who are the Left Front candidates for the two seats?

The CPI has fielded Shanti Gopal Giri from Nandigram, and the CPI(M) has nominated Advocate Syed Asad Ali from Rejinagar.

When is voting scheduled to take place?

Polling for both assembly constituencies will occur on October 6, 2026, with results announced on October 9.

Where can citizens check official updates regarding the election schedule?

Comprehensive election timelines and candidate affidavits are published via the Election Commission of India Portal.

Source: Election Commission of India, Left Front Committee West Bengal, The Hindu Kolkata Bureau, The Indian Express State Desk