Crucial Bypolls Across India Test New Coalition INDIA’s Strength

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In a pivotal moment for Indian politics, bypolls for seven assembly seats are set to take place on Tuesday, garnering widespread attention as a litmus test for the newly formed Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). This coalition, comprising 28 non-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) parties, is aiming to challenge the incumbent Narendra Modi government in the upcoming general elections. The results of these bypolls, scheduled to be announced on Friday, September 8, will carry significant implications for the political landscape of India.

The bypolls are being conducted in two seats in Tripura and one seat each in Kerala, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Tripura – Boxanagar and Dhanpur Seats

In Tripura, the by-election in Boxanagar is drawing attention as it is considered a stronghold of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M). Tafajjal Hussain (BJP) is pitted against Mizan Hussain (CPI(M)) in what promises to be a closely watched contest. Additionally, in Dhanpur, Bindu Debnath (BJP) is contending against Kaushik Debnath (CPI(M)), with two independent candidates also in the race. These elections were necessitated by the demise of Samsul Haque and the resignation of Pratima Bhoumik.

West Bengal – South 24 Parganas Seat

The South 24 Parganas seat in West Bengal fell vacant after the unfortunate passing of Bishnu Pada Ray. This election will test the unity of INDIA as the Trinamool Congress takes on the Congress-CPI(M) alliance, challenging the BJP’s current hold on the seat.

Uttar Pradesh – Isauli Seat

In Uttar Pradesh, the Isauli seat is witnessing the first direct clash between the INDIA coalition and the BJP. This bypoll became necessary when Dara Singh Chauhan resigned from the Samajwadi Party (SP) to join the BJP. Congress, Left parties, and the Aam Aadmi Party are extending their support to Samajwadi Party’s Sudhakar Singh, making this a closely contested battle.

Uttarakhand – Bageshwar Seat

The Bageshwar seat in the hill state of Uttarakhand is being contested following the demise of Chandan Ram Das. Parvati Das (BJP) and Basant Kumar (Congress) are the main contenders. Basant Kumar, a recent entrant to Congress, aims to retain the seat.

Kerala – Puthuppally Seat

Kerala’s Puthuppally seat has garnered attention due to the passing of Congress veteran Oommen Chandy. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has fielded Jaick C Thomas, while Chandy Oommen represents the Congress-United Democratic Front (UDF), seeking to uphold his father’s legacy.

As voters cast their ballots on Tuesday, all eyes are on the outcomes of these crucial bypolls, which not only determine the composition of the respective state assemblies but also carry significant national implications. The results will be closely watched as a barometer of INDIA’s strength and its potential to challenge the status quo in Indian politics in the upcoming general elections.