Amit Shah Sets BJP Target of 22 Seats in Kolkata Region
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has asked Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers to aim for winning 22 of the 28 Assembly seats in and around Kolkata in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Shah made the statement during organisational meetings with party leaders and cadres in the state, stressing the importance of strengthening the BJP’s presence in the Kolkata region.
Focus on organisation and unity
Shah told party workers that achieving the target would require strong booth level organisation, disciplined campaigning and unity within the state unit. He urged leaders to put aside internal differences and focus on voter outreach, particularly in urban and semi urban constituencies that fall under the Kolkata parliamentary areas. Senior BJP leaders from the state attended the meetings, which were aimed at reviewing organisational preparedness and setting clear political goals.
Strategy against ruling Trinamool Congress
The BJP’s renewed focus on Kolkata comes as the party looks to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress, which has traditionally dominated the city and surrounding areas. While the BJP has improved its vote share in parts of West Bengal in recent elections, it has struggled to convert that support into Assembly victories in the Kolkata belt. Party leaders believe a concentrated campaign in these constituencies could significantly alter the political balance.
Political road ahead
Shah’s seat target signals the BJP’s intent to make a serious push in West Bengal’s urban centres. However, the party faces a tough contest in a state where local issues, governance and leadership will play a key role in shaping voter preferences.
