The Decisive Test in Bengal of Democracy, Development and Identity

West Bengal’s politics is presently passing through a critical transitional phase, where power, conflict, law, and public sentiment are colliding head-on. This confrontation is not merely a struggle for political dominance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC); it is, in fact, a decisive test of governance style, democratic norms, and developmental vision—factors that will shape Bengal’s political trajectory in the years to come. For a long time, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee successfully stemmed the BJP’s advance with the slogan “Khela Hobe” (The game is on). This time, however, the circumstances appear far more complex, challenging, and multidimensional. The eyes of the entire nation are fixed on West Bengal. The forthcoming Assembly elections promise to be highly dramatic and decisive, potentially unveiling new directions for the state’s future.

On one hand, the confrontation between the Centre and the state government has reached its peak; on the other, actions by central investigative agencies, judicial observations, and legal debates are shaping the political discourse. Recent remarks by the Supreme Court have raised not just legal questions but have also indicated the limits of state governments’ interference in the functioning of central agencies. This entire episode has partially impacted Mamata Banerjee’s political image—an image she has long cultivated as a defender of federalism against what she terms the Centre’s oppressive tendencies. Prolonged legal battles inevitably carry immediate and deep political consequences, especially when elections are near and public attention shifts from administrative achievements to allegations and counter-allegations.

A defining characteristic of Bengal’s politics has always been the intensity with which ideology and emotions are expressed. After decades of Left Front rule, Mamata Banerjee’s rise was nothing short of a mass movement. She not only dismantled Leftist dominance but also established herself as the voice of the poor, the marginalized, and regional identity. In her early years, her government earned public trust through welfare schemes and effective political communication. Over time, however, allegations of excessive centralization of power, tight organizational control, and intolerance toward dissent began to surface alongside her successes.

The BJP has sought to build its political base by capitalizing on these perceived weaknesses. From the 2019 Lok Sabha elections onward, the party has steadily strengthened its organizational structure in Bengal and aggressively advanced narratives centered on Hindutva, nationalism, and anti-corruption. Although the TMC returned to power with a landslide victory in the Assembly elections, it is equally true that the BJP has now established itself as a permanent and consequential force in Bengal’s politics. While the gap in seat numbers may have been disappointing for the BJP, its expanding organization and growing social base have opened new possibilities for the future.

In recent years, the question of development appears to have taken a back seat in Bengal. Issues related to industry, investment, and employment have been drowned out by political noise. A major concern among the public is why the state’s politics remains persistently associated with confrontation and violence. Electoral violence, attacks on political workers, and doubts about administrative neutrality have tarnished the state’s image. Illegal infiltration from neighboring countries, demographic changes in border areas, and law-and-order challenges have also become integral to the political discourse. On these issues, the Mamata government often appears defensive, while the BJP seeks to link them with national security and cultural identity to mobilize broader support.

The BJP’s recent successes in Maharashtra’s urban local body elections and in Bihar have undoubtedly boosted its confidence. The party’s belief that Bengal remains ripe for political change is not based solely on electoral statistics but is seen as part of a long-term strategy. Yet Bengal is no ordinary political battleground. Its social fabric, cultural consciousness, and historical memory have never been easy terrain for any party. Mamata Banerjee’s greatest strength continues to be her grassroots connect and emotional appeal, which distinguish her as a regional and local leader rather than a representative of centralized power.

The upcoming Assembly elections will truly test whether the electorate prioritizes development, stability, and law and order, or continues to be guided by emotional and identity-based politics. Will Mamata Banerjee return to power for a fourth consecutive term, proving that confrontation with the Centre remains her strongest political asset? Or will the BJP succeed in convincing voters that change is the pathway to stability and development? This question remains open. Judicial processes, political rhetoric, and electoral strategies all have their place, but the final verdict rests with the people of Bengal.

Today, West Bengal’s politics is passing through a phase of narrow-mindedness and communal polarization, which has severely obstructed the pace of development. Once regarded as the country’s economic, industrial, and intellectual capital—especially Kolkata—Bengal now appears to be lagging behind in investment, industry, and employment. During Mamata Banerjee’s long tenure, erosion of industrial confidence, capital flight, shuttered units, and the migration of youth to other states have become visible indicators of decline. Questions over the autonomy of democratic institutions, suppression of opposition voices, and incidents of electoral violence have deeply wounded the state’s democratic health.

Equally troubling are the growing anxieties surrounding the social fabric of the state. Complaints regarding law and order, religious freedom, and majority–minority relations have repeatedly surfaced; notably, a sense of insecurity among sections of the Hindu community has deeply unsettled public sentiment. These events and perceptions have weakened public trust and intensified disillusionment with governance. When politics becomes confined to identity and division, development, inclusion, and social harmony inevitably fall behind—this is the tragedy unfolding in today’s Bengal.

At such a juncture, it is imperative for the people of Bengal to remain vigilant about their democratic rights. The state is not merely a geographical entity; its identity is shaped by its intellectual tradition, emotional sensitivity, religious coexistence, spiritual quest, and rich literary heritage—from Rabindranath Tagore to Swami Vivekananda, whose legacies have long guided its path. The stains left on this identity by riots, violence, and fear can only be erased through peaceful, aware, and fearless democratic participation.

The forthcoming elections offer the public an opportunity for introspection and self-determination—where the vote should serve not merely as a tool to choose a government, but as a means to safeguard Bengal’s future, its culture, and its democratic self-respect. The emerging picture of Bengal is still not fully clear. It is a portrait composed of struggle and possibility, anxiety and hope. On one side stands the experience of power and an established support base; on the other, an aggressive opposition backed by the might of national politics. This is the essence of democracy—it reserves the final word for the people. The voters of Bengal alone will decide whose move will prevail in this political game of check and mate, and which side will ultimately claim victory.