BJP names Nisith Pramanik state vice-president to consolidate Rajbanshi support in North Bengal

The Bharatiya Janata Party has announced its new 35-member West Bengal state executive committee, appointing former Union minister of state Nisith Pramanik as a state vice-president. The move is being seen as a strategic step ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, particularly aimed at strengthening the party’s hold in north Bengal.

Nisith Pramanik belongs to the Rajbanshi community, a key social group in north Bengal’s electoral landscape. Political observers believe his inclusion in the state executive is intended to consolidate the Rajbanshi vote base and revive organisational momentum in the region, where the BJP is seeking to regain lost ground.

After losing the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Pramanik had remained largely inactive in visible party programmes. His absence had drawn criticism from a section of the organisation, especially over his perceived distance from party workers who were allegedly attacked in Cooch Behar.

In recent weeks, however, Pramanik has returned to the political spotlight, taking part in protests and movements, including those related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). His elevation to the post of state vice-president has further strengthened his standing in district politics.

In Cooch Behar, Pramanik is now seen as the BJP’s principal face against senior Trinamool Congress leader Udayan Guha. Party sources indicate that the central leadership is keen to build its north Bengal strategy around him. Reacting to his appointment, Pramanik said his focus remains on ensuring the BJP’s victory across West Bengal in 2026.