
Thu Jan 01 14:35:42 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on the information:
Summary:
The article reports on the renewed involvement of former West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh in state politics. After a period of relative inactivity following a controversial meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Ghosh was included in key meetings with Union Minister Amit Shah ahead of the 2026 Assembly election. He is scheduled to participate in a political rally with current State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, signaling a potential return to a more prominent role within the party. While Ghosh’s future involvement, including whether he will contest the election, remains to be decided by the party, his reappearance suggests a strategic move to leverage his past successes in strengthening the BJP’s position in West Bengal.
News Article:
Former West Bengal BJP Chief Dilip Ghosh Poised for Political Comeback Ahead of 2026 Elections
KOLKATA, January 1, 2026 – Former West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh appears set to return to active politics, after months of speculation about his role within the party. Ghosh met with incumbent State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya on Thursday, a day after being included in critical meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to strategize for the upcoming 2026 Assembly election.
Ghosh’s renewed involvement follows a period of relative inactivity, sparked by a controversial meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in 2025. His absence from key rallies led by Prime Minister Modi and Minister Shah further fueled rumors of a rift within the state BJP leadership.
However, his recent inclusion in high-level discussions signals a potential shift. A political rally in Durgapur, scheduled for January 13th with Bhattacharya, further reinforces this notion.
“I will remain in the team and will do as I am told,” Ghosh stated at a press conference, emphasizing his commitment to the party’s directives. When questioned about his potential candidacy in the upcoming election, he deferred to the party’s decision, stating, “I will be there when the party needs me.”
Ghosh’s return is viewed as strategically significant. During his tenure as State BJP chief, the party saw substantial gains, winning 77 seats in the 2021 Assembly election, a significant increase from three in 2016, and 18 Lok Sabha seats in 2019, compared to two in 2014. The BJP leadership is likely hoping to leverage his experience and popularity to strengthen their position in the crucial 2026 elections. The internal dynamics of Bengal BJP will be an interesting watch.