The political climate in West Bengal continues to intensify ahead of the 2026 Assembly Elections, with fresh controversy emerging over the appointment of a Returning Officer (RO) in the high-profile Bhawanipur constituency.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has formally lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI), raising objections to the appointment of Surajit Roy as the Returning Officer for Bhawanipur. In its communication, the ruling party has alleged that Roy shares close associations with senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, who is contesting from the same constituency against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
According to the TMC, Roy had previously served as the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Nandigram-II block and is currently posted as Additional Director of Land Records. The party has questioned both his neutrality and the suitability of his current role, arguing that his appointment could compromise the fairness of the electoral process.
The Bhabanipur constituency holds particular political significance, as Mamata is contesting from the seat. The TMC has emphasised that the role of a Returning Officer is crucial in ensuring free and transparent elections, and any perception of bias could undermine public trust in the democratic process. Calling for immediate intervention, the party has urged the ECI to reconsider Roy’s appointment in the interest of maintaining electoral integrity and voter confidence.
The controversy comes in the backdrop of a sweeping administrative reshuffle initiated by the Election Commission. A total of 73 Returning Officers across the state have been transferred, following communications from the State Chief Electoral Officer dated March 19 and March 23.
In addition to the RO transfers, the ECI has undertaken significant changes in the state’s administrative machinery. Within hours of announcing the election schedule, key officials—including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Commissioner of Police (CP)—were replaced. Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) across five regions have also been transferred, along with District Magistrates (DMs) in more than half of West Bengal’s districts.
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