THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Kolkata, March 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched development projects worth ₹18,680 crore in Kolkata and used a rally at the Brigade Parade Ground to sharpen the BJP’s attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Modi’s visit came as the Election Commission is preparing the schedule for the upcoming polls, while also reviewing the status of more than 60 lakh voters yet to be included in the electoral roll.
Addressing BJP supporters at the party’s Parivartan Sankalp Yatra rally, the Prime Minister delivered a 50-minute speech, beginning and ending in Bengali while speaking largely in Hindi.
‘Election about Bengal’s future’
Modi said the Assembly polls were not just about changing the government but about safeguarding Bengal’s identity. He alleged that infiltration had altered the demographic balance in several areas and accused the TMC of opposing citizenship for Hindu refugees.
Criticism over President Murmu issue
The Prime Minister also accused the state government of disrespecting President Droupadi Murmu and the tribal community, referring to an incident related to a Santhal tribal festival.
Attack on TMC over institutions and law and order
Modi alleged that the Trinamool frequently questions constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission whenever issues of free and fair elections arise.
He also claimed that law and order had deteriorated in the state, alleging that political intimidation had created an atmosphere of fear.
Migration and unemployment concerns
Raising the issue of youth migration, Modi said many young people from Bengal were forced to leave the state in search of education and employment. He accused the state government of irregularities in job recruitment and of blocking benefits of central schemes.
BJP’s promise on safety and governance
Referring to incidents such as Sandeshkhali and the RG Kar case, the Prime Minister alleged that criminals were being protected in the state.
He said women’s safety and governance would improve if the BJP came to power in West Bengal, adding that this was “Modi’s guarantee.”