Dynastic politics is gaining ground in Bengal this Lok Sabha election, deviating from the state's tradition of nurturing grassroots leaders. Out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats, 13 are contested by political dynasties, a sharp rise from past elections which saw dynastic candidates in only three seats. Bengal, known for vibrant student politics, is now witnessing influential political families taking the spotlight. "This is a new trend in Bengal politics, shifting from class-based to dynasty politics. Never before have so many candidates hailed from political lineages," said political scientist Maidul Islam from the Centre for Studies in Social Sciences, as reported by PTI.