With 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections drawing closer, the political temperature in the state is steadily climbing, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle. Parties are recalibrating strategies, leaders are stepping up their outreach, and narratives around identity, development and governance are beginning to take the centre stage.
In an exclusive conversation with Ei Samay Online, BJP MP from Godda, Jharkhand, Nishikant Dubey, laid out his political views spanning Jharkhand and West Bengal, mixing personal connection, ideological conviction, and electoral confidence.
‘I spend my time listening, not just speaking’
Reflecting on his parliamentary journey, Dubey underlined his working style.
“I spend most of my time in the Parliament. I reach when it opens and leave when it closes. I don’t go there just to give speeches,” he said.
Taking a swipe at “senior leaders”, he added, “Many come only to speak. I prefer listening, from morning till evening.”
He also stressed the role of constant learning in shaping his political understanding. “There is no day when I don’t read for two-and-a-half hours. That helps me understand what a Bill means, what a discussion means, and what should happen next.”
‘Infiltration is an issue I have raised consistently’
On infiltration, particularly in eastern India, Dubey said it has remained central to his politics since 2009.
“Since my first election, I have been consistent on one issue: infiltration,” he said, linking it to demographic shifts in his constituency.
Citing census figures, he pointed out, “In 1951, the Adivasi population in my area was 45%. By 2011, it came down to 26%.”
He also raised concerns about border challenges. “The terrain is difficult: rivers, mountains and even fencing become a challenge. The state government is not cooperating in providing land for fencing.”
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‘I have seen Bengal closely, it is personal for me’
Dubey spoke at length about his emotional and cultural connection with Bengal.
“My childhood was spent in Kolkata and Mahesadal. I have seen Bengal with my own eyes. That is why this issue is close to my heart,” he said.
Calling Bengal the “cultural capital of India”, he added, “The ‘Sonar Bangla’ already exists, we are talking about its revival.”
Expanding on this, Dubey cited multiple historical and cultural references, questioning the lack of efforts to preserve them.
Referring to Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, he said, “I have visited Nadia. Whenever I come, I go there. Did anyone try to trace his legacy?”
He also referred to Aurobindo, Khudiram Bose and sites linked to the freedom movement, asking whether efforts were made to preserve them.
Highlighting regions like Deoghar, Giridih and Bhagalpur, he said several prominent figures had deep links with these places.
“Raj Narayan Bose spent his last years in Deoghar. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar stayed there. Jagadish Chandra Bose spent time in Jharkhand. Rabindranath Tagore had property in Deoghar and Ranchi,” he said.
He added, “Swami Vivekananda established a Ramakrishna Mission school in Deoghar. Bidhan Chandra Roy and P.C. Ghosh studied there. Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s story is linked to Bhagalpur.”
‘Bengalis in Deoghar trust me’
Positioning himself within this shared cultural space, Dubey made a direct political claim: “Bengalis in Deoghar trust me.”
He linked this trust to a broader ideological narrative, saying, “Bharatiya Janata Party was formed by a Bengali, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. His contribution and sacrifice are part of our ideology.”
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‘Muslims should vote based on nationalism’
On the question of Muslim voters in West Bengal, Dubey said, “The genuine Muslims who are citizens of this country should vote for BJP based on nationalism. This is what we expect.”
He added, “Our opposition is not to the citizens of this country. This country belongs to Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and everyone.”
Drawing on history, he referred to the 1950 Nehru-Liaquat Pact, saying Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee had opposed provisions that, in his view, allowed cross-border movement. “What he had warned about, that infiltration would increase, is what we are seeing today,” Dubey said.
He also claimed that illegal infiltration impacts employment and resources, affecting citizens across communities.
Law, corruption and development priorities
Looking ahead to West Bengal politics, Dubey outlined three key priorities if his party comes to power:
“The biggest issue is law and order,” he said, adding, “Bengal should be a free society with no discrimination.”
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On corruption, he was direct: “Corruption, infiltration and land issues have to change.”
For development, he focused on Kolkata’s potential. “If we develop the riverfront from Babu Ghat to Diamond Harbour, it can become one of the most beautiful places in the world.”
Addressing Centre-State dynamics, Dubey said fund allocation depends on proper utilisation.
“The money belongs to the people. It must be used properly. If utilisation certificates are given, funds will be released,” he said, alleging corruption as a key hurdle.
‘This time, there is no competition’
Dubey expressed strong confidence about the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
“Why won’t Bengalis vote for BJP?” he asked, before adding, “We have given Bengal to the country and the world.”
His prediction was unequivocal: “BJP will get 200 seats. I am 100% confident. This time, there is no competition.”
