Kolkata, Sep 23 (V7N)- Ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections, the Indian National Congress has made a significant leadership change to strengthen its state organisation. Shubhankar Sarkar has been appointed as the new president of the West Bengal Pradesh Congress, replacing Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a move that is seen as part of the party's strategy to revitalise itself for the upcoming electoral battle.

On Sunday, the newly-appointed state president, Shubhankar Sarkar, addressed the media, offering a clear message to Trinamool Congress (TMC), the dominant political force in the state. Sarkar emphasised the Congress's commitment to the people’s issues, stating, "We will talk about the people. We will be associated with what people want. But laying hands on a Congress worker will not be accepted. We will not back down when we go against any political party."

The change in leadership comes after months of speculation following Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury’s defeat in the last Lok Sabha elections. Chowdhury, a well-known political figure and former 'Robin Hood' of Baharampur, had hinted at his impending resignation, citing the Congress party's tradition of appointing new state presidents following the election of a new All India Congress President.

Shubhankar Sarkar, who has held various key roles within the Congress at both state and national levels, took charge with a clear mandate to rebuild the organisation in preparation for the 2026 assembly elections. In his first press conference as the new state president, Sarkar underscored the importance of focusing on organisational strength, saying, "Our target is to strengthen the organisation before the 2026 assembly elections."

He also addressed a range of political and social issues affecting the state, including corruption and the welfare of women. On the issue of RG tax and corruption in sectors like education and health, Sarkar expressed his solidarity with the protestors, particularly in Kolkata, thanking them for standing against such crimes. He further urged West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to take a serious stance on issues affecting women in the state.

Sarkar made it clear that under his leadership, the Congress would not remain silent on these critical issues and would continue to press for justice and reform. He plans to meet with Rahul Gandhi to discuss these matters further.

This leadership change comes at a critical time for the Congress as it seeks to carve out a stronger role in West Bengal's evolving political landscape, especially with the India Alliance, which includes both the Congress and the TMC. Sarkar’s emphasis on strengthening the grassroots organisation reflects the party's renewed focus on preparing for a tough contest in the 2026 assembly elections.

The new leadership is expected to bring a fresh wave of energy to the Congress's efforts in the state as they gear up for the elections, with the goal of reclaiming political ground in a state that has been dominated by the Trinamool Congress for years.

END/RH/AJ