As the election campaign in West Bengal heats up, Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress (TMC) party on Sunday. He characterized the TMC as a party opposed to the interests of North Bengal, tribal communities, tea gardens, women, and youth.
During a public rally in Siliguri, located in the northern part of West Bengal, PM Modi claimed that while many areas in North Bengal were suffering from severe rainfall, the TMC government was celebrating in Kolkata. “The TMC is preoccupied with catering to its voter base,” he remarked.
Speaking at the Kawakhali ground, PM Modi asserted that the TMC has caused significant harm to West Bengal over its 15 years in power. He criticized the party for allocating a substantial Rs 6,000 crore to madrasas while neglecting the development needs of North Bengal. “The disparity in the TMC government’s budget highlights its disregard for North Bengal. This government prioritizes its specific voter base over the region’s development,” Modi stated.
Furthermore, he condemned the TMC for allegedly supporting elements he referred to as the “tukde-tukde gang,” who had previously threatened to disrupt the Siliguri Corridor, a vital land connection to India’s northeastern states. “The Siliguri Corridor is crucial for national security. The TMC’s actions to appease certain groups demonstrate its true nature,” he claimed.
PM Modi highlighted that the Darjeeling region, known for its tea plantations, is suffering due to the TMC’s policies. He contrasted this with Assam, another major tea-producing state, where the BJP government has implemented various beneficial programs for tea garden workers. He stated, “In Assam, significant initiatives have been undertaken for the welfare of tea workers’ families, including education and health services. The BJP is committed to similar enhancements in West Bengal, focusing on land leases, permanent housing, and employment opportunities for plantation workers.”
Additionally, he emphasized the importance of sports for children in Bengal and announced the BJP’s plan to establish a Sports University in North Bengal. “The youth in this region should have the opportunity to excel in sports,” he mentioned.
Reflecting on his interaction with cricketer Richa Ghosh, PM Modi praised the talent emerging from Bengal and expressed admiration for her achievements in cricket. “Richa’s incredible performance has made her a significant figure in the sport, and I was truly impressed by her determination,” he noted.
Addressing the needs of tribal communities, PM Modi revealed that the central government is rolling out two major initiatives, worth approximately Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at enhancing infrastructure in tribal areas through road construction, clean water access, and educational and healthcare facilities. He criticized the TMC for obstructing these vital developments.
With the state Assembly elections approaching, scheduled for April 23 and April 29, PM Modi assured that under a ‘double engine’ government, West Bengal could expect accelerated development.
Tanusree Bose is a committed journalist with The Indian Express, based in Kolkata, where she specializes in intricate political, administrative, and judicial stories within West Bengal, establishing her as a credible voice in regional journalism.
Her current role includes reporting for the esteemed national daily, ensuring a high level of trustworthiness in her content. With a focus on West Bengal, she demonstrates profound knowledge of local news and political dynamics.
Bose’s reporting portfolio covers crucial areas such as state politics, judicial matters, education sector controversies, and social issues, making her a reliable source for significant regional developments.
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