Mekliganj (SC), a Scheduled Caste–reserved constituency in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, remains an important seat in the state’s northern political landscape. The constituency comprises a mix of semi-urban and rural areas, with agriculture, small trade, and cross-border economic activity shaping local livelihoods. Electoral contests here have typically been competitive, reflecting shifting political preferences seen across north Bengal in recent years.
In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, the seat was won by Paresh Chandra Adhikary of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). He secured victory over his nearest rival from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with a margin of 14,685 votes. The result indicated a clear but not overwhelming lead, underlining the constituency’s status as a closely watched battleground rather than a safe stronghold.
Key issues in Mekliganj (SC) revolve around everyday development concerns. Employment opportunities, particularly for young voters, remain a major challenge, with many residents seeking work outside the constituency. Infrastructure gaps — including road conditions, drainage, and reliable drinking water supply — continue to feature prominently in voter discussions. Access to quality healthcare and educational facilities is another recurring concern, especially in rural pockets. Farmers often raise demands related to crop prices, irrigation support, and rural welfare schemes, given the constituency’s dependence on agriculture.