Not too long ago, Kalita Maji made Rs 2,500 per month working as a domestic help. On Monday, when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s saffron wave swept through West Bengal, she was among the 206 legislators heading to the state assembly.
Maji, a BJP candidate won from the Ausgram seat in Purba Bardhaman district, won by a margin of 12,535 votes.
What makes Maji's journey extraordinary is that before ascending to power, she faced financial hardships for a long time. She even had to drop out of school early due to a lack of resources and began working as a domestic helper, earning around Rs 2,500 a month.
Her husband works as a plumber, and the family has managed its expenses while raising their son, who is currently in Class 8. For many in her constituency, this lived experience has made her a relatable figure.
Her political journey began nearly a decade ago, at the grassroots level, as a booth worker. She first contested the Assembly elections in 2021 but lost, despite securing around 41% of the vote.
When the BJP fielded her again in 2026, it signalled the party's continued backing. The strategy worked this time.
Maji's election affidavit shows total assets of Rs 1.61 lakh, including savings and small investments. Her husband owns a 871 sq ft house valued at around Rs 3 lakh, which was gifted by his father.
The affidavit also mentions two pending criminal cases, though neither is classified as serious.
Within the party, her candidacy had already generated buzz. The BJP was focusing on candidates with grassroots connections and modest backgrounds in West Bengal. Party National General Secretary BL Santhosh acknowledged her victory, stating that the party “recognises talent and hard work,” regardless of social or economic status.
Maji comes from Kashemnagar in Mangalkot and grew up in a large family with seven sisters and one brother. Her father was a dailywage labourer, and money was always tight.
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Besides Maji, leaders like Chandana Bauri have previously followed a similar path as they moved from daily wage work to electoral politics.
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