Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, May 19: In a significant political development ahead of the repolling at Falta Assembly constituency, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Abhishek Banerjee’s aide Jahangir Khan on Tuesday announced that he will not contest any further elections.

The decision comes just two days before the re-election in Falta, which falls under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency represented by TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

The Election Commission of India had earlier scrapped the polling in Falta Assembly segment, citing “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process.” Allegations included voter intimidation, EVM tampering attempts, and missing CCTV footage in several booths, making it difficult to verify polling integrity.

Reports also pointed to a lack of visible campaigning from senior TMC leaders in the constituency ahead of the repoll.

During the earlier election phase, Jahangir Khan had drawn attention for his remarks targeting an IPS officer deployed as election observer, comparing himself to “Pushpa” in response to the officer’s “Singham” reputation.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday while stepping away from the contest, Khan said he was withdrawing in the interest of peace and development in Falta, adding that the region would benefit from a “special development package.”

His statement triggered political reactions, with opposition leaders questioning the timing of his exit. Meanwhile, TMC leader Kunal Ghosh also reacted, asking why Khan had withdrawn if he had earlier projected confidence in the contest.

BJP leaders had earlier criticised the absence of top TMC figures from campaigning in the constituency, while alleging that previous elections in the area were influenced by intimidation tactics—claims denied by the ruling party.

The withdrawal has further intensified political debate in the run-up to the repolling, with both parties continuing to exchange sharp remarks over the conduct of elections in Falta.