Mamata’s decision to contest from Nandigram to offset Suvendu Adhikari’s defection was a strategic move, said political observers. Nandigram comprises Nandigram-1 and Nandigram-2 blocks. The epicentre of the anti-land acquisition movement was the minority-dominated Nandigram-1. The majority-dominated Nandigram-2 watched the flames from afar. The core TMC brass, led by Abu Sufian and Abu Taher, have homes in Nandigram-1. It is this divide Adhikari has been trying to play on. Nandigram needed a figure of stature to rise above this divide, said observers. TMC is not taking any chances. Till Thursday night, at least two senior ministers were in Nandigram, taking stock of preparations. Party secretary Subrata Bakshi has been frequenting Nandigram. Purnendu Bose and MP Dola Sen will campaign there till the election on April 1. The party is also scouting for a home for Mamata there. “Nandigram has become synonymous with TMC. Suvendu held the baton there. Now that he has defected, party workers had become directionless. The CM’s decision is a bold move,” said a political analyst.