As West Bengal prepares for its two-phase assembly elections in about ten days, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a promise on Saturday to the state’s voters. He assured them that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) gains power, it will accelerate the citizenship process for eligible refugee families under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
Addressing a rally in Katwa, located in the Purba Bardhaman district, PM Modi specifically targeted the Matua and Namasudra communities, which constitute a vital voting demographic in various South Bengal districts. He expressed, “All refugee families, including our Mathuas, Namasudras, and others, are present here not because of the TMC Government but due to the Constitution of India. Our government established the CAA to ensure that Mathuas, Namasudras, and other refugees receive their rightful citizenship. Once the BJP is in power, we will expedite citizenship for refugees under the CAA.”
Furthermore, the Prime Minister issued a stark warning to illegal immigrants, asserting that the BJP would take strict action against them upon assuming control. “I urge all infiltrators to prepare to leave; those who have aided them in creating fraudulent documents and linking them to government schemes will also face consequences,” he said, following the release of the BJP’s manifesto, titled ‘Sankalp Patra’.
In reference to the commitments outlined in the Sankalp Patra, PM Modi affirmed the BJP’s intention to fulfill these promises. “We have laid out a roadmap encompassing six pledges—my assurance to dismantle the oppressive rule of the TMC Government and restore public trust. The BJP will publish a White Paper addressing corruption and law enforcement, ensuring that all criminals and corrupt ministers within the TMC are held accountable,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also committed to addressing individuals involved in riots and political unrest. He accused the TMC of instilling fear among the citizens of West Bengal over its 15 years in power. “This election is a chance to eliminate that fear from the lives of our people. This marks our initial step towards a developed Bengal. Remember, ‘bhoi’ (fear) out, and ‘borsha’ (faith) in. Vote for the BJP,” he urged.
Criticizing the alleged corruption of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), PM Modi proposed the establishment of an investigative commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge to probe political violence, should the BJP come to power. “Under BJP governance, we will ensure transparency at all levels, from village government offices to the state administration. Even within the police force, we will maintain transparency, replacing corrupt practices with a fair tendering process,” he asserted.
Highlighting West Bengal’s natural wealth, PM Modi reminded voters of the state’s resources. “Bengal is blessed with mountains, fertile land, and forests. The only thing missing is good governance and sincere intentions. While Burdwan is known for its wheat and jute, the current TMC Government has devastated potato farmers by failing to honor their promises to purchase their produce. This will not be tolerated, and farmers in Bengal will benefit from a double-engine government,” he emphasized, also pledging to rejuvenate the jute industry.
The Prime Minister claimed that the TMC is now in a state of panic due to the BJP’s growing popularity among the populace, prompting them to spread misinformation. “They claim that existing schemes will be terminated. I assure you that we will not abolish any programs, but we will put an end to their corruption and exploitation. I want to assure all women and girls in West Bengal that ₹3,000 will be provided to you each month. Under BJP governance, women will be able to roam freely without fear. The BJP government is dedicated to ensuring the safety of women, which starkly contrasts with the TMC,” he stated.
In total, PM Modi conducted three rallies in West Bengal, including events in Katwa, Jangipur, and Murshidabad. During a separate rally in Jangipur, he remarked, “From Sandeshkhali to RG Kar, this (TMC) tyrannical government has shielded rapists. Bengal will not forget this. The era of fear is coming to an end.”
Additionally, PM Modi shared a video on X showcasing the large gathering at the helipad in Katwa, stating, “Look at the massive crowd behind me. It’s 11:30 AM, the first public meeting, and we have such a turnout at the helipad; this is truly remarkable.”
Tanusree Bose is a committed journalist for The Indian Express, reporting from Kolkata. She specializes in the intricate political, administrative, and judicial developments in West Bengal, establishing her as a credible source in regional news.
Currently, she reports for the esteemed national daily, The Indian Express, providing trustworthy content.
With a strong focus on West Bengal, her reporting showcases her deep understanding of the state’s political landscape and news intricacies.
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