Why Mamata didi keeps winning in West Bengal

1. English Blog Home / Blog / Why Mamata didi keeps winning in West Bengal: A Leader rooted in Ma, Mati & Manush Report Why Mamata didi keeps winning in West Bengal: A Leader rooted in Ma, Mati & Manush Published 29 May 2025 Share this post: Mamata Banerjee, the fiery and indomitable leader of West Bengal, has been at the helm of the state’s politics since 2011. Her uninterrupted hold on power for over a decade, through three consecutive election victories, raises an important question: why does Mamata Banerjee keep winning in West Bengal? The answer lies not just in political strategy, but in a deep and emotional connection she has nurtured with maa, maati, manush—the mind, soil, and people of Bengal. From Congress to Trinamool: The birth of a regional force Mamata Banerjee’s political journey began within the Indian National Congress, but her uncompromising nature and focus on the people’s causes often clashed with the party’s high command. In 1998, breaking away from Congress, she founded the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC or TMC). In its very first Lok Sabha election in 1998, the fledgling party won 7 seats, signaling the emergence of a new force in Bengal. Over the next few years, TMC’s political alignments shifted—first allying with the BJP-led NDA (where Mamata served as Railway Minister), then briefly rejoining Congress, and again returning to NDA in 2003. These were years of political experimentation and adjustment. However, after a disappointing result in the 2006 state assembly elections, Mamata Banerjee stepped down from the Lok Sabha, refocusing her energy entirely on West Bengal. Turning point: 2011 and the fall of left bastion The watershed moment came in 2011, when the TMC, under Mamata's leadership, ended the 34-year reign of the Left Front, the world's longest democratically elected communist government. That victory was not just a political win—it was the result of years of grassroots agitation, including her iconic protests against forced land acquisition in Singur and Nandigram. These movements cemented Mamata’s image as the “ didi” someone who fights for farmers, workers, and the marginalized. Her simplicity, refusal to live lavishly, and accessible demeanor set her apart in an age of elite-driven politics. Governance rooted in the grassroots Once in power, Mamata focused on welfare-driven governance—schemes like Kanyashree, Sabuj Sathi, Swasthya Sathi, and Duare Sarkar helped her create a direct connect with households across rural and urban Bengal. Her outreach, especially among women, minorities, and the economically weaker sections, solidified her core support base. Unlike many politicians, Mamata cultivated the image of a leader who doesn't just rule from the top, but walks the lanes, listens to grievances, and connects with emotion and empathy. 2021: A fierce battle and a resounding mandate The 2021 West Bengal Assembly Election was arguably her toughest challenge yet. With the BJP launching an all- out campaign featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and almost the entire central leadership, the stakes were high. Despite the BJP securing a massive 38.5% vote share and 77 seats, Mamata’s TMC managed an even stronger comeback—winning 213 seats, two more than its 2016 tally, and capturing 48% of the total vote. Her personal injury during the campaign and her decision to contest from Nandigram—the symbolic heart of her 2007 land rights agitation—added a layer of emotional resonance. Though she narrowly lost the seat, TMC’s overall performance reaffirmed her unmatched popularity. The emotional connect: Why she keeps winning So let’s come back to the question- Why she keeps winning ? Political observors opine that Mamata Banerjee is not just a political figure—she is an emotional presence in the lives of millions of Bengalis. They claim that he embodies struggle, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will. Her simple lifestyle, street-fighter image, and direct language appeal to the everyday citizen. What sets her apart is the perception that she hasn’t forgotten where she came from. Whether it's walking barefoot in rallies, refusing VIP culture, or writing poetry and painting, she projects the image of someone deeply rooted in Bengal’s cultural and emotional ethos. Election analysts and political veterans claim that Mamata Banerjee’s continued electoral success in West Bengal is not just a result of political maneuvering—it is the outcome of decades of struggle, emotional resonance with the masses, and policies that touch everyday lives. Her story is that of a woman who rose from the streets of Kolkata to become a three-time Chief Minister, unafraid to take on powerful opponents and unrelenting in her fight for Bengal’s soul. In Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal sees not just a leader—but a reflection of its own strength, struggle, and spirit. Quick Links Contact Us About Us S1, Bidla Sons, Ajmer Road, DCM, Jaipur, 302021 (Rajasthan) VoterMood is a platform for democratic engagement. Information on this platform is meant for public awareness and participation. Users are encouraged to engage responsibly and respect democratic principles. What We Offer News & Media Blog support@votermood.com FAQ Contact Us +91-85 0202 6969

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