New Delhi: The Nandigram bypoll has turned into a major political flashpoint after Congress candidate Milan Pradhan was arrested in connection with an old case, leading to sharp reactions from opposition leaders and a fresh political confrontation in West Bengal.
The arrest came at a crucial time, ahead of the bypoll, and triggered allegations from Congress leaders, who questioned the timing of the police action.
Milan Pradhan Arrested Before Nandigram Bypoll
According to reports, Milan Pradhan was arrested in connection with a case linked to the 2007 Nandigram land agitation. The development came shortly after support was extended to his candidature, adding another twist to the electoral contest.
The arrest immediately became a political issue, with Congress leaders alleging that the action was aimed at affecting the election process.
Rahul Gandhi Calls Arrest “Political Revenge”
Reacting to the arrest, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that the action was politically motivated.
The arrest of Congress candidate Milan Pradhan for Nandigram by-election is no coincidence, it is political vendetta – It is murder of democracy.
BJP has no faith in fair elections – Therefore, sometimes the government wants to steal votes, sometimes the government wants to steal and sometimes the party wants to save power through theft.
He does not want to contest elections,…
—Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) September 18, 2026
In a post on
He further added, “The Congress will neither fear nor bow down. We will fight — and we will win.”
The Congress leader accused the BJP of trying to avoid a direct electoral contest, while asserting that his party would continue its political fight.
BJP Rejects Congress Allegations
The BJP rejected the allegations of political revenge and maintained that legal action was based on existing cases and should not be linked with elections.
The controversy has intensified the political atmosphere around the Nandigram bypoll, where multiple parties are competing to strengthen their position.
Nandigram Becomes Center Of Political Attention
Nandigram has remained one of West Bengal's most politically significant regions, with its history of intense electoral battles and movements.
The latest controversy over Milan Pradhan's arrest has added a new dimension to the bypoll, with political parties trading allegations and defending their positions ahead of voting.
The upcoming election is now being closely watched as the arrest row continues to dominate political discussions in the state.