KOLKATA, April 20 -- Ever since the start of his career, Raj Chakraborty has been known for taking on "challenges", whether transitioning from TV to becoming a popular commercial filmmaker in the Bengali film industry, or stepping into politics. Now, he is seeking a second term as the MLA of Barrackpore on TMC ticket at the 2026 assembly polls. On Tuesday, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee will hold a mega rally for Raj in Titagarh.

In the 2021 assembly elections, Raj defeated BJP's Chandramani Shukla by a margin of 9,222 votes. This time, he faces a tougher contest against BJP candidate and advocate Kaustav Bagchi, who has publicly challenged him to win by a margin of 50,000 votes. Raj remains confident, placing his faith in the people of his Constituency. He believes his strongest asset is the effective implementation of welfare schemes introduced by Mamata Banerjee's government. He is also optimistic about increasing his winning margin, including gaining support from Hindi-speaking pockets of Barrackpore that have traditionally leaned towards the BJP.

"We work on the ground throughout the year. Those who serve people 24x7 do not fear challenges. Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee have once again placed their trust in me, and I am grateful," Raj said.

His campaign strategy combines extensive door-to-door outreach with efforts to connect with younger voters, often seen engaging with locals, even playing cricket during campaign trails. Meanwhile, Bagchi's campaign has also gained momentum. Raj, however, criticised the BJP's approach. "Bengal does not subscribe to the politics of the BJP, which hinges on communalism and divisiveness. They do not understand Bengal's culture and are bringing voters from Hindi-speaking regions," he said.

The 'Abar Proloy' director also criticised BJP for making people wait in queues for demonetisation, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), and the shortage of LPG cylinders. "The SIR was meant to identify Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, but how many were actually found? Instead, common people were made to stand in queues for basic necessities," he said.

Addressing concerns over women's safety, particularly in light of the RG Kar incident, Raj acknowledged the seriousness of the issue. He stated that no government wants such incidents to occur and said that the administration has taken necessary steps. "Such incidents should not happen. However, unlike in many states where they go unnoticed, in Bengal they come to light," he said. To enhance safety, he has overseen the installation of CCTV cameras across Barrackpore, along with improvements in roads and drainage systems.

If re-elected, Raj plans to introduce free Wi-Fi zones in Barrackpore and Titagarh, beautify local ponds, upgrade playgrounds, and work for the betterment of his area. 

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.