Congress–CPM Alliance Ends as Dharmanagar By-Election Turns Into High-Stakes Three-Cornered Contest Dharmanagar,
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, March 19, 2026
The political landscape in Tripura’s Dharmanagar has intensified dramatically with the formal announcement of candidates by all major parties, marking the end of any possibility of a Congress–CPM understanding and setting the stage for a fierce three-way battle. The Congress has declared Chayan Bhattacharya as its candidate, while the Left Front, led by CPI(M), has fielded Amitabha Dutta. Meanwhile, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced Jahar Chakraborty as its nominee, triggering a dynamic and closely watched electoral contest.
A Three-Cornered Battle Begins with all three political forces entering the fray independently, Dharmanagar is now witnessing a full-fledged triangular contest. The by-election has gained statewide attention following the demise of veteran leader Bishwa Bandhu Sen, whose absence has left a significant political vacuum.
Since the Election Commission announced the poll schedule, public discourse in Dharmanagar has largely revolved around one key question: Who will emerge as the rightful successor to Bishwa Bandhu Sen? Names surfaced frequently across social media, marketplaces, and public gatherings, reflecting intense curiosity and political engagement among voters.
The BJP’s decision to nominate Jahar Chakraborty is being seen as both a calculated political move and a message to party workers. A long-time party loyalist, Chakraborty has been associated with the BJP since its early days in Tripura, when the party had minimal presence in the state.
His political journey is closely linked to late leader Rasik Ranjan Goswami, under whose mentorship he grew within the party. Notably, Chakraborty continued to stand firm with the BJP even during periods when contesting elections against the then-dominant Left Front was considered extremely challenging.
Party insiders suggest that his candidature reflects recognition of grassroots dedication and ideological commitment. By selecting a relatively soft-spoken yet experienced leader, the BJP appears to be balancing generational appeal while reinforcing internal discipline and loyalty.
The 56-Dharmanagar Assembly constituency is one of Tripura’s most prominent urban centers, known for its rich cultural, educational, and commercial environment. With a socially diverse and politically aware electorate, winning this is considered both prestigious and strategically important.
Political observers believe that BJP’s choice of Chakraborty, given his social acceptance, political experience, and local connect has added a new dimension to the contest and may put early pressure on opposition parties.
After filing his nomination today, CPI(M) candidate Amitabha Dutta expressed strong confidence, stating that if elected, he would bring unprecedented development to Dharmanagar, beyond what people have even imagined.
Interestingly, despite the eventual candidate announcements, there had been relatively less discussions in the sub-division regarding Congress and CPM nominees earlier, compared to the intense speculation surrounding the BJP candidate. This trend indicates the constituency of public expectation and political momentum.
As campaigning begins in full swing, all eyes are now on Dharmanagar. For the BJP, the goal is not only to retain the seat but also to secure a decisive victory margin. For Congress and CPI(M), the election presents an opportunity to regain lost ground and reassert their relevance.
With emotions, legacy, and political strategy all converging, the Dharmanagar by-election is poised to become one of the most closely watched contests in Tripura’s recent political history.
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