Veteran Congress Leader Santosh Pathak Joins BJP in Kolkata

Kolkata, March 2026 : In a significant political development, senior Congress leader Santosh Pathak has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party after a four-decade-long association with the Indian National Congress. Pathak, a well-known figure in Kolkata politics, formally embraced the BJP at a press conference held at the party’s Salt Lake office on Monday.

The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including state BJP president Shamik Bhattacharya, former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, BJP national leader Amit Malviya, and state general secretary Locket Chatterjee.

Pathak has been a four-time councillor from Ward No. 22 of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, building a strong grassroots presence over the years. Welcoming him into the party, Bhattacharya praised Pathak’s long-standing political career, stating that his decision reflects a commitment to principled politics and a desire for change in West Bengal.

Bhattacharya criticised the current political environment in the state, asserting that people are seeking an alternative to the ruling Trinamool Congress. He claimed that the BJP is emerging as the primary choice for voters looking for change.

After joining the BJP, Pathak expressed confidence in the party’s future in the state. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a political shift in West Bengal is inevitable. He also made strong allegations against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party, accusing them of winning elections through unfair means.

Pathak further criticised Abhishek Banerjee, alleging that such practices would no longer be possible with the BJP strengthening its base in the state. His entry into the BJP is seen as part of the party’s broader strategy to expand its influence by bringing in experienced leaders ahead of upcoming elections.