A fresh political flashpoint has emerged in Kolkata after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) put up unique posters outside the Chandni Chowk Metro Station featuring top leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).
The posters prominently display images of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and party leader Abhishek Banerjee, along with a large QR code placed at the centre. The move has sparked curiosity among passersby, many of whom were seen scanning the code to access the linked content.
According to BJP sources, the QR code directs users to digital material highlighting alleged corruption, governance issues, and what the party describes as failures of the TMC government. The initiative is being seen as part of the BJP’s broader digital outreach strategy ahead of the Assembly elections.
The TMC, however, has strongly objected to the posters, accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation and engaging in negative campaigning. Party leaders claimed that such tactics are aimed at misleading voters and diverting attention from core issues like development and welfare.
Political observers say the use of QR codes marks a shift towards more tech-driven campaigning methods in West Bengal, blending traditional street प्रचार with digital engagement. The approach allows parties to convey detailed narratives beyond the limited space of physical posters.
The posters have also raised questions about permissions and regulations regarding political advertising in public spaces. It remains unclear whether the required approvals were obtained for placing such materials near a busy metro station.
As campaigning intensifies in Kolkata, innovative strategies like these are adding a new dimension to the political battle between the BJP and TMC, making the contest not just visible on the ground but also increasingly digital.
