Kolkata, March 16: Hooghly is a significant district located in the Bardhaman division of West Bengal, with its headquarters in Chinsurah. Named after the Hooghly River, which serves as its lifeline, the district’s name is likely derived from the long grass known as ‘Hogla,’ abundant along riverbanks and marshy areas.
Historically, Hooghly has been important since ancient times. Initially, this area was under the Suhmas tribe, mentioned alongside Anga, Banga, and Pundra in the Mahabharata and in the second-century grammar text, Mahabhashya. The region boasts a rich heritage, including its part in the Bhurshut Bengali Empire. Before colonial times, Hooghly was a major river port thriving with trade. In 1536, Portuguese traders received permission from Sultan Mahmud Shah to conduct trade here. By the 13th century, it was under indigenous rulers, later falling to Mughal control in the northern parts. In 1795, Hooghly was separated from Bardhaman district, becoming its own district, and by 1822, it was established as a distinct collectorate.
The area of Hooghly is approximately 3,149 square kilometers. According to the 2011 census, the total population was 5,519,145, comprising 2,814,653 males and 2,704,492 females. The population density was 1,757 individuals per square kilometer, with about 61.43% residing in rural areas and 38.57% in urban settings. The sex ratio stood at 961 females per 1,000 males, with estimates suggesting the population reached around 6 million by 2026. The district is divided into four subdivisions: Chinsurah Sadar, Shrirampur, Chandannagar, and Arambagh.
Economically, Hooghly is among the most developed districts in West Bengal. It serves as the state’s primary center for jute cultivation, industry, and trade. Its riverside location facilitates transportation for industries. Agriculture is prominent, with rice, potatoes, vegetables, and other crops being cultivated. Jute mills, engineering industries, and small factories are concentrated here. Proximity to Kolkata accelerates economic growth.
Politically, the Hooghly Lok Sabha constituency (number 28) represents the district, which includes seven assembly segments: Balagarh, Chandannagar, Chunchura, Dhaniakhali, Pandua, Saptagram, and Singur, all located within Hooghly.
The electoral history of the Hooghly constituency is diverse. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, TMC’s candidate, Banerjee, won with 702,744 votes, while BJP’s Locket Chatterjee secured 625,891 votes, and CPM’s Mandeep Ghosh received 139,919 votes. The victory margin was approximately 76,853 votes.
Despite the Congress wave in 1952, HMS’s N.C. Chatterjee won here. CPI’s Provat Kar triumphed from 1957 to 1962, followed by CPM’s B.K. Modak from 1967 to 1977, and Rupchand Pal in 1980. Indumati Bhattacharya from Congress won in 1984, with CPM’s Rupchand Pal winning continuously from 1989 to 2004. In 2009, TMC’s Dr. Ratna Dey defeated CPM. TMC showed strength in 2014, but in 2019, BJP’s Locket Chatterjee won by a margin of 671,448 votes, with TMC’s Ratna Dey in second place. TMC made a comeback in 2024.
This district is a unique blend of agriculture, industry, and history. Nestled along the Hooghly River, it plays a crucial role in West Bengal’s development. The upcoming assembly elections are expected to witness a fierce contest between TMC and BJP.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment