Congress Conundrum: Bengal's Existential Dilemma

The Congress party in Bengal is grappling with internal factions and strategic uncertainties ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Three primary factions are debating alliances with the TMC, sustained cooperation with the Left Front, or contesting independently. Historically weakened by alliances, Congress is in a critical existential crisis.

The Congress party in Bengal faces an existential crisis as it prepares for the 2026 Assembly elections. The party is split into three factions: one advocating an alliance with the TMC, another urging continued cooperation with the Left Front, and a third pushing for an independent run.

Congress's organizational strength has waned following defections to the TMC and BJP and persistent infighting. The party's vote share has dramatically dropped from 14% in 2011 to just 3% in the 2021 state polls, leaving it without any Assembly seats.

Party leaders are divided on the impact of past alliances on its current condition, with ongoing disagreements on the best path forward. Despite this division, there is a consensus on the need to challenge the current political divisions fueled by TMC and BJP policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)