A large number of people gathered outside the rally venue in Kolkata on Thursday, unable to find space inside as Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his address.
The spill-over crowd watched the speech from near a Doordarshan (DD) broadcast van stationed outside the premises.
The overwhelming attendance at the event, organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), highlighted the scale of public interest and enthusiasm, with people from various parts of the city and surrounding areas arriving well in advance.
The venue, which was prepared to accommodate thousands, quickly reached full capacity before the Prime Minister’s arrival.
Security and logistical teams closed the entry gates, leaving many people outside. Instead of dispersing, they gathered near the DD van, where officials aired the speech live.
Eyewitnesses reported people standing on pavements, gathering in groups, and even climbing onto nearby structures to catch a glimpse or hear the Prime Minister’s message.
Public Enthusiasm Amidst Election Mood
The event comes amid heightened political activity in West Bengal as the state gears up for the next round of elections.
Prime Minister Modi visited Kolkata to rally support for the BJP and outline key developmental promises.
One attendee said, “Even though I couldn’t get inside, I stayed because I wanted to hear Modiji speak. We came from outside Kolkata early in the morning. This happens only once in a while.”
Party organisers acknowledged the overwhelming response, stating that while seating arrangements were extensive, the turnout far exceeded expectations.
“The people’s love for the Prime Minister is visible. We regret that not everyone could enter, but alternative arrangements like outdoor screens and the DD van helped many stay connected,” a BJP worker said.
The scene around the van became a mini-venue in itself, as people clapped, cheered, and recorded the speech on their phones.
The turnout is being viewed by political observers as a sign of growing momentum for the BJP in the state.
West Bengal has become a key battleground, and the party is aiming to expand its base further beyond the urban electorate.
With PM Modi focusing on employment, infrastructure, and national security in his speech, the BJP hopes to resonate with a wider voter base.
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