In West Bengal's Siliguri constituency, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Shankar Ghosh emerged victorious, defeating Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Goutam Deb by a margin of 73,192 votes. Ghosh secured a total of 1,20,760 votes, while Deb garnered 47,568 votes. Siliguri, a major urban constituency in the Darjeeling district, encompasses the city of Siliguri and its surrounding suburban areas. As a commercial and transportation hub of north Bengal, the constituency holds considerable political and economic significance.
Key Candidates and Historical Context
In the 2026 elections, the primary candidates included Goutam Deb of the TMC, Shankar Ghosh of the BJP, and Alok Dhara of the Congress. In the previous 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, the seat was won by Ashok Bhattacharya of the TMC, who defeated his nearest rival from the BJP by a margin of approximately 3,000 votes. That closely fought contest reflected Siliguri's competitive political environment and its mix of urban development issues and voter expectations.
Economic Backbone and Voter Concerns
The economy of Siliguri is diverse, with trade, services, tourism, logistics, and small-scale industries forming the backbone of livelihoods. Key issues include urban infrastructure, transportation, and civic amenities. Road congestion, drainage, reliable electricity, and water supply are major concerns in city areas, while suburban and peri-urban pockets also highlight infrastructure gaps. Employment opportunities, particularly for youth, remain a priority, as many residents seek stable jobs in the city's service and trade sectors.
Election Details and Turnout
The constituency went to polls on April 23, as part of Phase 1. Darjeeling district recorded a voter turnout of 88.98%, indicating strong electoral engagement. The decisive victory for the BJP underscores a significant shift in voter sentiment compared to the narrow margin in 2021.
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