Opinion | In Bengal's Final Phase, Identity, Culture And Welfare Battles Take The Stage

Updated: Apr 20, 2026 13:04 pm IST Published On Apr 20, 2026 13:04 pm IST Last Updated On Apr 20, 2026 13:04 pm IST

Published On Apr 20, 2026 13:04 pm IST

Last Updated On Apr 20, 2026 13:04 pm IST

With barely a few days left for voting, the West Bengal Assembly election has entered its decisive final stretch. In this last leg, both sides have begun to deploy their sharpest strategies, pushing every possible narrative to influence voters. What was once a contest framed around slogans like "Jai Shri Ram" or "Jai Maa Kali" has now evolved into a more layered political battle, where multiple issues intersect. At this point, one of the most critical questions shaping the campaign is the impact of SIR and how it may influence voter behaviour.

On the campaign front, Mamata Banerjee has clearly shifted her narrative towards a strong anti-Delhi positioning. She is intensifying the argument that Delhi, with all its institutional power, is attempting to dominate Bengal politically, culturally, and socially. Her campaign suggests that Bengali identity, culture, and traditions are under threat, and that an external force is trying to reshape Bengal in its own image. This framing is being consistently amplified across rallies and public messaging.

At the same time, the BJP, led nationally by Narendra Modi, has recalibrated its approach. While Hindutva remains a core ideological pillar, the party is now equally focused on projecting itself as a genuine well-wisher of Bengal. From North Bengal to South Bengal, BJP leaders are making visible efforts to demonstrate their emotional and cultural connection with the state, emphasising development, identity, and inclusiveness rather than relying solely on religious slogans.

Fish Enters Poll Battle

Perhaps the most unusual and striking feature of this election campaign has been the emergence of what can only be described as "fish-centric politics". For Bengalis, fish is not merely food; it is an essential part of life, often referred to colloquially as "Ganga phal", symbolising its deep cultural significance. Without fish, many Bengalis would consider life incomplete.

In this context, past controversies such as restrictions on fish displays and similar disputes over the subject have come into play. Sensing an opportunity, Mamata Banerjee has begun warning voters that if the BJP comes to power, it could interfere with their food habits, even suggesting that fish consumption might be affected. The Trinamool Congress has skilfully tied this issue to Bengali identity, framing it as a matter of cultural survival.

This narrative has........

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