A day after an “apolitical rally” in Kolkata demanding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resignation descended into violence, the BJP has announced a 12-hour bandh in West Bengal, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday. This protest targets police actions against demonstrators who were blocked from marching to Nabanna, the state secretariat.

The bandh could lead to clashes with the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which is holding its student wing’s foundation day event in the afternoon. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, TMC second-in-command Abhishek Banerjee, are expected to address the event. Their remarks on the recent violence, the R G Kar rape-murder case, and the ongoing CBI investigation will be closely scrutinized.

Given the BJP’s organizational struggles, the impact of the bandh may be limited to areas where the party retains a strong presence. The BJP’s recent setbacks, including a significant drop in Lok Sabha seats from 19 to 12, have intensified its focus on the R G Kar case, offering a chance to question the Mamata Banerjee government and bolster its leadership’s credibility. However, this opportunity might be seen as missed if the bandh fails to gain substantial traction.

In Context: The BJP’s challenge in Bengal involves not only rebuilding its grassroots network but also establishing a credible state leadership capable of challenging the TMC. Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, faces difficulties uniting the faction-ridden state unit. His success will depend on support from the RSS, though it’s unclear if he currently has that backing.

Assam Controversy: In Assam, the Opposition has intensified its criticism of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma amid uproar over an alleged gangrape case. Sarma’s remarks about preventing “Miya Muslims” from dominating Assam have further strained relations. The Opposition has demanded Sarma’s removal and plans to file a police complaint against him. The situation is escalating with heightened tensions and police interventions in response to local groups’ ultimatums.

In Context: Sarma is a key BJP figure in the Northeast, known for his strategic influence in various states. Despite controversies, he remains a significant player in the party’s election strategies, including efforts in Jharkhand and other regions.

Also Happening Today:

• The Haryana Congress screening committee continues its deliberations to finalize the Assembly election list.
• Andhra Pradesh will begin its transition to digital governance with the Council of Ministers meeting via an e-cabinet app, starting at 11 a.m.