Cooch Behar Dakshin Assembly Election 2026: Avijit Dey Bhowmik vs Rathindra Nath Bose, who is winning

Located in the northern part of West Bengal, Cooch Behar Dakshin is known for its agrarian landscape and socio-political significance in the district. The constituency reflects a mix of rural economy and diverse communities, making it a key battleground in north Bengal politics.

Demographic Mosaic

The constituency has a largely rural population with agriculture as the primary occupation. Scheduled Castes and minority communities form a significant part of the electorate, contributing to its diverse social composition. High voter participation has remained a defining feature here.

Exit polls trends

Most exit polls have pointed towards a win for BJP in West Bengal, overthrowing the incumbent All India Trinamool Congress Government which has ruled the state for 15 years.

Voting Phase and Turnout

Polling was held in Phase 1 on April 23, recording a massive voter turnout of 94.74%, one of the highest in the state and a sign of strong electoral engagement.

Electoral Fortunes

In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, the BJP won the seat with Nikhil Ranjan Dey securing 91,560 votes (46.83%), defeating AITC’s Avijit Dey Bhowmik who polled 86,629 votes (44.31%). The result marked a gain for the BJP from the Trinamool Congress.

Key Candidates

Avijit Dey Bhowmik is once again in the fray for the AITC, while the BJP has fielded Rathindra Nath Bose as a new face. Other candidates include Nazmul Alam Sarkar (AIFB) and Khokan Mian (INC), making it a multi-cornered contest.

Election Dynamics

The contest is expected to be closely fought, with the AITC banking on its returning candidate to reclaim the seat, while the BJP looks to retain its 2021 gains with a new nominee. The high turnout could prove decisive in the final outcome.