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

West Bengal police defend the lawful arrest of Nandigram Congress candidate amid political backlash from Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee.

West Bengal police defend the lawful arrest of Nandigram Congress candidate amid political backlash from Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee.

The Bengal BJP has rejected Rahul Gandhi's charge that Milan Pradhan's arrest in Nandigram was political revenge. The arrest has triggered a wider row, with Mamata Banerjee also questioning its timing before the bypoll.

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).

Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, the team Mamata candidate, who earlier had withdrawn his nomination from the Rejinagar seat, is now back on the poll race.

Congress candidate Milan Pradhan, facing serious criminal charges, was arrested before the Nandigram bypoll and will appear in court.

Congress candidate Milan Pradhan, facing serious criminal charges, was arrested before the Nandigram bypoll and will appear in court.

Congress candidate Milan Pradhan arrested hours after receiving Mamata's support, amid claims of political motivation in Nandigram bypoll.