Prime Minister Narendra Modi, amid his fervent campaigning ahead of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, made a significant stop in Jalpaiguri, Bengal, following his rally in Nawada, Bihar. The visit marked his second trip to Bengal in just three days, highlighting the critical importance of the region in the upcoming polls.
Expressing his condolences to the victims of the recent storm that claimed five lives in Bengal, PM Modi conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to those who lost their loved ones and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He emphasized the resounding call for change echoing across Bengal, emphasizing the renewed commitment of the Modi government to serve the people.
#WATCH पश्चिम बंगाल: जलपाईगुड़ी में प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ने कहा, "TMC, वामदल और कांग्रेस ने एक-दूसरे के भ्रष्टाचारियों को बचाने के लिए INDI गठबंधन बनाया है। मैं कहता हूं भ्रष्टाचार मिटाओ, वे कहते हैं भ्रष्टाचारी बचाओ। ये चाहे जो बोलें, मैं आपको गारंटी देता हूं कि 4 जून के बाद… pic.twitter.com/2KdvpMisJu
— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) April 7, 2024
In his address, PM Modi didn’t shy away from targeting the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, branding them as part of an alliance with the Left parties and Congress, which he dubbed as ‘the same partners.’ Accusing them of protecting corrupt elements within their ranks, he contrasted their agenda with his government’s resolve to eradicate corruption and pave the way for a developed India.
Highlighting instances of alleged atrocities and lawlessness, PM Modi pointed out the need for decisive action against corruption and criminal activities, promising intensified efforts post-June 4. He condemned what he described as TMC’s attempts to stifle dissent and attack central investigative agencies, accusing them of flouting the law and trampling upon constitutional norms.
Taking a swipe at the Congress, PM Modi addressed recent remarks by Congress President Kharge questioning his focus on Kashmir in other states. Asserting the significance of Kashmir as an integral part of India, he invoked historical figures like Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, a Bengali who dedicated his life to the cause of Kashmir, underscoring the sacrifices made by soldiers from across the country in defense of the region.
In essence, PM Modi’s visit to Bengal underscored the high stakes and fierce competition characterizing the electoral battleground, as parties vie for supremacy and the mandate of the people in the Lok Sabha elections.