The Indian Secular Front leader enjoys local support and minority backing amid wider political shifts
NEW DELHI — Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) strong showing in West Bengal, one seat has stood out for a very different reason.
In the Bhangar constituency of South 24 Parganas, Indian Secular Front chairman Naushad Siddiqui’s lead skyrocketed as the rounds went by. After 12 rounds of counting, Indian Secular Front (ISF) candidate Naushad Siddiqui has left his nearest rival Shawkat Mollah of the All India Trinamool Congress, behind by a huge margin of 28,316 votes. He has taken a clear lead, maintaining his position despite the broader trend seen across the state.
The result is not yet official, but trends suggest Siddiqui is likely to retain the seat he first won in 2021, when he was the only winning candidate from his party.
The ISF had fielded candidates in 33 constituencies, but Bhangar appears to be the only place where it has secured a decisive lead.
Locals say the result reflects grassroots support rather than broader political trends.
One voter in Bhangar said, “People here know Naushad Siddiqui. He speaks for us and raises our issues.”
Another resident added, “No matter what happens in the rest of Bengal, this seat is different. The support here is very clear.”
The constituency, considered sensitive, went to the polls in the second phase on 29 April, with 19 candidates in the fray. Despite the crowded field, Siddiqui has stayed far ahead.
Across West Bengal, the BJP has shown strong gains, while the ruling All India Trinamool Congress has trailed behind expectations.
A political analyst told reporters, “The BJP has expanded its base across Bengal, but Bhangar shows that local leadership and community connection still matter in certain areas.”
In Bhangar, the focus remains on Siddiqui’s continued hold. A supporter said, “This victory is about trust. People here believe their voice is heard.”
