Kolkata's Tangra neighbourhood, known as the city's Chinatown, is a unique blend of Chinese and Indian cultures. During the West Bengal elections, campaign messages in Mandarin have appeared on walls, reflecting political parties' efforts to reach out to the small Chinese-Indian community.
However, conversations with residents reveal that their concerns go beyond partisan loyalty, focusing on structural issues such as livelihood security, safety, and cultural preservation.
Long-time residents have spoken about the changing economy, with many renting out their factory spaces or struggling to maintain businesses due to threats from local strongmen.
Another pressing issue is redevelopment and relocation, with many community members feeling mounting pressure that could displace them from their ancestral homes.
Despite the symbolic inclusion of Mandarin campaign messages, residents are seeking more than just recognition of their presence.
The elections are not just about political outcomes but also about preserving the neighbourhood's unique identity shaped over a century of Chinese-Indian history in Kolkata.
Voting will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results declared on May 4.
