Heavyweight candidates file nomination with grand processions in Siliguri

Siliguri: Siliguri witnessed a festive atmosphere on Thursday as heavyweight candidates from Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) filed their nomination papers for the Assembly elections with grand processions and enthusiastic crowds. With the elections scheduled later this month, political parties have intensified their efforts to showcase strength and mobilise support. Notably, candidates from both the TMC and BJP chose the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti to submit their nominations.

TMC candidate for the Siliguri Assembly Constituency, Gautam Deb, began his day by offering prayers at a Hanuman temple before leading a massive procession from Baghajatin Park to the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). The rally saw a large turnout of party workers and supporters, who marched with flags and drums. Meanwhile, TMC candidate for the Matigara-Naxalbari constituency, Shankar Malakar, also filed his nomination. He led a procession from Mallaguri, accompanied by a large number of party supporters.

On the other hand, BJP candidates Shankar Ghosh for Siliguri and Anandamay Barman for Matigara-Naxalbari also submitted their nominations together. Their rally began from Kanchenjunga Stadium and witnessed significant participation from BJP workers and supporters. To maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents, heavy police deployment, along with central forces, was arranged outside the SDO office. The area was secured with barricades.

After filing his nomination, Gautam Deb said: “The spontaneous presence of people has inspired me. I will continue to work tirelessly for them in the coming days.”

Shankar Malakar expressed confidence, stating: “There is no real opposition on the ground; we are the only force. The Trinamool Congress will once again expand its power in the state.”

BJP candidate Shankar Ghosh said: “The BJP is set to win in Siliguri by a massive margin, something never seen in recent history. This time, the BJP will form the government in the state.” Echoing similar sentiments, BJP candidate Anandamay Barman said: “A wave of saffron will sweep across Bengal.”