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With nearly 15 years of anti-incumbency working against the party, the leadership is believed to be keen on introducing fresh faces and giving prominence to younger candidates
While speculation continues to mount, the final list will be cleared by chief minister Mamata Banerjee after discussions with Abhishek Banerjee. (PTI)
The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) is almost ready with its candidate list for the upcoming assembly elections, according to sources within the party. The list is expected to be released soon after the Election Commission announces poll dates.
Major Churning Within the Party
Sources say intense internal discussions are currently underway regarding who will be retained and who will be dropped. Performance over the last five years and “winnability” are being cited as the two key criteria for ticket allocation this time.
Several MLAs who have reportedly underperformed may be denied tickets. With nearly 15 years of anti-incumbency working against the party, the leadership is believed to be keen on introducing fresh faces and giving prominence to younger candidates.
Age Limit Debate Gains Momentum
A significant debate is ongoing within the party over whether senior leaders above 70 or 75 years of age should be given tickets. National general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has repeatedly spoken about the need for age limit in politics.
Whether the party will formally adopt this line and drop leaders who have crossed 70 remains a key question. However, sources indicate that senior leaders who have performed well and maintain strong electoral prospects are likely to be retained, while those perceived as inactive may be shown the door.
Celebrity and Diverse Background Candidates Likely
TMC has traditionally fielded candidates from diverse professional backgrounds, and this election is expected to be no different. Sources suggest that celebrity candidates could feature on the list once again.
One prominent name doing the rounds is Swapna Barman, the celebrated athlete from North Bengal who recently joined the party. Party insiders indicate she may be considered for a seat in the North Bengal region.
No Easy Entry for Political Heirs
Another interesting development is the lobbying by senior leaders seeking tickets for their children. Names such as Firhad Hakim’s daughter Priyodarsahini Hakim and Supti Pandey’s daughter Shreya Pandey are reportedly being discussed in political circles.
However, sources say the party leadership is unlikely to field both a senior leader and their child from two different constituencies simultaneously. If senior leaders choose to vacate their seats in favour of their children, the party may consider such proposals. Otherwise, the chances of political heirs securing tickets remain slim.
Partha Chatterjee Unlikely to Return
Former education minister Partha Chatterjee is unlikely to receive a ticket, as he remains suspended from the party for six years, sources added.
Final Call with Mamata Banerjee
While speculation continues to mount, the final list will be cleared by chief minister Mamata Banerjee after discussions with Abhishek Banerjee. Sources describe Abhishek’s role as crucial, noting that he has been actively involved in organisational restructuring as national general secretary.
With the list reportedly almost ready, political speculation is expected to intensify until the official announcement is made. Party insiders describe the final selection as a “balanced mix of experience and youth,” aimed at countering anti-incumbency while retaining strong performers.
March 04, 2026, 10:24 IST
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