Kolkata, 18 April (H.S.) : Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin campaigned on Saturday for Congress candidate Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in the Baharampur Assembly constituency of West Bengal’s Murshidabad district. He participated in a roadshow in the town and appealed to voters to support the Congress nominee.

Ahead of the roadshow, Azharuddin highlighted Chowdhury’s long political experience and deep connection with the region, saying he deserved public support for the development of Baharampur and the welfare of its people.

A large number of people gathered on both sides of the road to catch a glimpse of the former cricket captain. Many residents were also seen waving at him from balconies and rooftops.

A five-time Member of Parliament from Baharampur, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury is contesting the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections as the Congress candidate. His candidature marks a return to state electoral politics after nearly three decades.

Polling in the Baharampur Assembly constituency will be held on April 23 in the first phase of elections. The second phase of polling is scheduled for April 29, while counting of votes will take place on May 4.

Chowdhury had lost the 2024 Lok Sabha election from the same Baharampur seat to Trinamool Congress candidate Yusuf Pathan. He is now seeking to reassert his political influence through the Assembly polls.

Political observers believe Azharuddin’s visit is part of the Congress strategy to add momentum to Chowdhury’s campaign.

Despite the Lok Sabha setback, Chowdhury continues to be regarded as an influential political figure in Murshidabad. He has represented Baharampur in Parliament since 1999 and has also served as a Union minister and President of the West Bengal Congress.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh