The Nandigram by-poll signals a crucial reset for Mamata Banerjee and her evolving alliance with Congress in West Bengal politics.

The arrest came shortly after Banerjee announced at a press conference at her Kalighat residence that her faction would back Pradhan in Nandigram. Her announcement followed the withdrawal of Sanchita Pradhan Dey, who had been fielded by the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

After Nandigram, TMC's Rejinagar candidate withdraws nomination; Mamata Banerjee loses both bypoll picks