Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a rally in Krishnanagar, Nadia district, intensified his criticism of the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal. He labeled the administration as synonymous with “oppression, dynasty politics, and betrayal,” accusing it of corruption and neglecting the state’s development. Modi set an ambitious target for the BJP to win all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, emphasizing the need for the state’s progress to align with that of the nation.
Addressing the rally, Modi highlighted the alleged appropriation of central schemes by the TMC, branding them as their own and fostering corruption and favoritism. He accused the TMC of turning every scheme into a scam and allowing “tolabaj” (extortionists) to wield undue influence in the state. Modi criticized the TMC for its handling of incidents like the cash-for-queries and the allegations of sexual abuse against TMC leaders in Sandeshkhali.
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The Prime Minister lamented the state government’s indifference towards justice for affected women and criticized its obstruction of central government initiatives, such as AIIMS in Kalyani, citing environmental clearance issues. He accused the TMC of granting free rein to hooligans and land mafias while impeding environmental permits.
Modi highlighted the disparity between central government assistance and its utilization in West Bengal, citing examples such as obstructing residents from benefiting from medical aid worth Rs 5 lakh. He criticized the TMC for obstructing the populace from reaping the benefits of central government initiatives.
In response to Modi’s charges, TMC leaders dismissed them as baseless and accused him of failing to address corruption within his party. They criticized Modi for sharing the stage with opposition leaders accused of corruption.
Despite the political rhetoric, Modi unveiled development projects worth Rs 15,000 crore in the state, aimed at boosting economic growth and creating job opportunities. These projects included initiatives related to railways, ports, petroleum, and power generation, among others. Notable inaugurations included the foundation stone laying of Damodar Valley Corporation’s Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station Phase II and the inauguration of the Farakka-Raiganj section of NH-12, among others.
