Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit West Bengal later this month to attend twin engagements—a formal administrative event and a high-profile political rally.
Though the itinerary is yet to receive official confirmation, BJP state committee sources have indicated that the visit could take place on 20 June.
According to BJP insiders, PM Modi may address a political rally in Nandigram, East Midnapore, a constituency represented by Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly.
This marks a potential strategic shift, as PM Modi had previously addressed a political rally on 29 May in Alipurduar, located in North Bengal.
The upcoming rally is being viewed as a significant show of strength in South Bengal, particularly in Adhikari’s stronghold.
Administrative Programme: Kolkata Metro Green Line
The Prime Minister is also likely to inaugurate or review progress on the Kolkata Metro Green Line project during his visit.
The West Bengal BJP unit has proposed holding both the political rally and the Metro programme on the same day.
They have sent a formal proposal to the Prime Minister’s Office and are awaiting confirmation before announcing the final plans.
Symbolism Of June 20: Bangla Day
BJP leaders are actively pushing for the events to take place on 20 June, which they observe as the historic ‘Bangla Day’—the date in 1947 when the Bengal Provincial Legislative Assembly voted to establish the state of West Bengal.
The BJP views this day as a moment of cultural and historical significance.
However, this designation remains contentious.
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has designated ‘Poila Baishakh’ (the Bengali New Year) as the state’s official Foundation Day.
Banerjee opposes the June 20 date, citing its association with the traumatic partition of India and undivided Bengal.
PM Modi’s anticipated visit comes amid heightened political tensions between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress.
During his May 29 rally, PM Modi highlighted five major challenges allegedly facing the state under the current TMC regime.
Days later, Union Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee felt ‘pained’ by the success of Operation Sindoor, in which the Indian Armed Forces destroyed terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.
If confirmed, PM Modi’s June 20 visit to West Bengal will likely serve both developmental and strategic political purposes.
The combination of administrative presence and symbolic political messaging aims to consolidate BJP’s footprint in the state ahead of upcoming elections.
Also Read: Rajeshwar Singh Honoured With ‘Excellence In Political & Public Life’ Award At House Of Lords
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
