Derek O'Brien, Dola Sen, and Saket Gokhale to be TMC Candidates; announcement of 6 names made

The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has announced its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in West Bengal. In a statement released by the TMC, it was stated that Derek O'Brien, Dola Sen, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, Samirul Islam, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Baraik will be the party's candidates for the Rajya Sabha. Notably, Samirul Islam, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Baraik are being fielded as candidates for the first time, while the other three are already serving as Rajya Sabha members.

The voting for the six seats in West Bengal will take place on July 24. Prior to this, the TMC has announced the names of its candidates. The total number of seats in the state assembly for voting is seven.

Derek O'Brien, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, and Dola Sen were already serving as TMC's Rajya Sabha members. They have been nominated again as candidates for the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, Saket Gokhale, Samirul Islam, and Prakash Chik Baraik have been chosen as candidates for the first time. Saket Gokhale's candidacy is being considered surprising.

The TMC, in its statement, mentioned that they hope these candidates will remain steadfast in their dedication to serving the people and upholding the Trinamool's unwavering commitment to the rights of every Indian.

Saket Gokhale, the TMC's national spokesperson, has been announced as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections. Saket Gokhale gained prominence during the Morbi Bridge incident in Gujarat when he tweeted incorrect information. This led to his arrest, and the incident stirred heated political debates at the national and state levels.

On the other hand, Samirul Islam and Prakash Chik Baraik are known for their work as social activists in state politics. Prakash Chik Baraik has a significant influence in North Bengal politics. It is worth noting that out of the total seven seats in the state, it is expected that TMC will secure around six seats based on the number of legislators in the assembly, while one seat is likely to go to the BJP.