TMC Candidate Jahangir Khan Bows Out Ahead of Crucial May 21 Falta Re-Vote

A major political development has emerged in West Bengal’s Falta Assembly constituency just ahead of the May 21 re-poll. Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Jahangir Khan has announced that he will not contest the election, dealing a significant blow to Mamata Banerjee’s party only 48 hours before voting. Jahangir Khan made the announcement during a press conference held at his residence in Kamardanga Khan Para in Falta. The Falta Assembly seat falls under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, represented by TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee. The Election Commission had ordered a re-vote in the constituency after several complaints surfaced during the second phase of the Bengal Assembly elections held on April 29. Reports claimed that tape had been found on the BJP button in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at some polling booths, while malfunctioning EVMs were reported at several other locations. Following these allegations and technical issues, fresh polling was scheduled for May 21, with results expected on May 24. While announcing his withdrawal, Jahangir Khan stated that his decision was made keeping the development and peace of Falta in mind. He praised Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for proposing a special development package for the region. Khan said his dream has always been to see “Golden Falta,” and he believes the special package announced for the constituency would help improve the lives of local residents. According to him, stepping aside from the election would support the area’s growth and stability. Jahangir Khan had become a popular talking point during the election campaign because of his “Pushpa”-style image inspired by actor Allu Arjun’s famous movie character. During rallies, he often repeated the iconic dialogue, “Pushpa Raj… I will not bow down,” while openly challenging his political rivals. However, his sudden withdrawal has sparked strong political reactions, especially after the BJP formed the government in Bengal for the first time since independence. TMC spokesperson Arup Chakraborty confirmed that the party had been informed about Khan’s decision but clarified that the exact reasons behind the move remain unclear. Meanwhile, Jahangir Khan had also approached the Calcutta High Court seeking anticipatory bail. He claimed there was a possibility of arrest before the re-poll and alleged that police had registered a false FIR against him using fabricated charges. Justice Saugata Bhattacharya accepted his plea, and the matter was scheduled for hearing during the court’s second session.