After Nandigram, TMC's Rejinagar pick quits bypoll race in double blow for Mamata

Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, who was picked by the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the Rejinagar Assembly bypoll, said on Saturday that he has withdrawn his nomination.Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, who was picked by the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the Rejinagar Assembly bypoll, on Saturday said he had withdrawn his nomination.This comes a day after Sanchita Pradhan Dey, the TMC faction’s candidate for the Nandigram Assembly constituency, also withdrew from the by-election race.Chowdhury said the decision to withdraw his nomination came following deliberations with Mamata herself.He mentioned the ongoing legal battle over the TMC's name and symbol, and alleged intimidation of cadre loyal to the Mamata-led faction as factors that influenced the decision. "Firstly, we have to fight on a new symbol. Our workers are being hounded, threatened and arrested. We are unable to give them protection. How can we contest like this?" Chowdhury said.He added, "That's why I've decided to withdraw. I have spoken to Mamata Banerjee, and she has told me to do what is best." This is a developing story. It will be updated.- EndsPublished On: Sep 19, 2026 11:43 IST