“Can’t Get Worse”: Why Congress Has Parted Ways with the Left in Bengal to Contest Assembly Polls Solo

Congress to Contest Bengal Assembly Polls Alone After Breaking with Left

Congress Chooses Solo Electoral Path

New Delhi / Kolkata — The Congress party has decided to contest the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections on its own, ending alliance discussions with the Left Front. The move comes after weeks of internal meetings where central and state leaders reviewed political ground realities and past election performances.

Alliance Talks Fail to Reach Agreement

Seat-sharing negotiations between Congress and the Left failed to produce a workable formula. Leaders from both sides were unable to agree on the number of constituencies, campaign coordination, and leadership roles. With differences widening, Congress concluded that continuing talks would not benefit its electoral prospects.

“Can’t Get Worse” Sentiment Within Party

Several senior leaders privately admitted that the party’s recent election results in Bengal have been disappointing, even when fighting in alliance. The view gaining ground inside Congress was that contesting independently could at least help rebuild its identity. Leaders argued that the party had little to lose and organisationally much to gain.

Focus on Reviving Grassroots Strength

A major reason behind the split is cadre morale. State leaders said alliances had weakened booth-level workers and confused voters about Congress’s ideological position. By going solo, the party hopes to energise local units, rebuild district leadership, and reconnect with traditional supporters across rural and urban belts.

Bengal’s Political Landscape Has Changed

West Bengal politics has undergone a dramatic shift over the past decade. The Trinamool Congress remains the dominant ruling force, while the BJP has grown into the principal opposition challenger. In this polarised environment, Congress believes it must re-establish its independent political space rather than rely on alliance arithmetic.

Risks of Multi-Cornered Contest

Political analysts warn that a four-way contest — involving TMC, BJP, Left Front, and Congress — could divide opposition votes. This fragmentation may indirectly benefit stronger parties. However, Congress strategists say long-term organisational revival is more important than short-term seat gains.

Campaign Machinery Activated

Following the decision, Congress has begun preparing for a full-scale election campaign. State units have been directed to identify candidates, strengthen booth management, and expand voter outreach. Key campaign themes are expected to include price rise, unemployment, governance gaps, and rural development concerns.

The Road Ahead

Congress’s decision to fight alone marks a significant shift in Bengal’s opposition politics. Whether this gamble revives the party’s electoral fortunes or further fragments its vote share will become clear only when voters head to the polls.