The BJP has named actor-turned-politician Koel Mallick as its candidate for the West Bengal Rajya Sabha by-election scheduled for October 16, 2026. This announcement follows her resignation from the Upper House in July, sparking sharp criticism from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leadership over her shift in political allegiance.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially announced actor-turned-politician Koel Mallick as its candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha by-election in West Bengal. The poll, scheduled for October 16, 2026, was necessitated by the vacancy created when Mallick resigned from her parliamentary seat earlier this year in July.
Following the nomination, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has voiced strong opposition to the move. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh publicly criticized the decision, labeling Mallick's shift to the BJP as a betrayal. The incident has reignited internal discussions within the TMC regarding the party's past strategy of fielding prominent public figures and intellectuals in political roles, with leadership now re-evaluating the long-term commitment of such candidates to the party's platform.
In response to the backlash, the BJP has defended the nomination. Party leaders, including MP Rahul Sinha and State Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul, have rejected the allegations of misconduct. They framed the move as a standard political development, emphasizing that Mallick remains untainted by corruption concerns and is expected to represent West Bengal's interests effectively in the federal chamber.
Given the current legislative composition of the 294-member West Bengal state assembly, the BJP is widely expected to secure the seat in the upcoming vote. The by-election serves as a notable event in the state's political climate, highlighting the ongoing realignments and the competitive dynamics between the TMC and the BJP as they vie for influence in the Upper House.
Political observers are watching the outcome of the October 16 election, which will confirm the transition of the seat and further clarify the political shift involving the former TMC member. The event remains a key point of contention as both parties prepare for the voting process.