Union Home Minister Amit Shah intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party’s campaign in West Bengal, launching sharp attacks on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the ruling All India Trinamool Congress during a series of roadshows and rallies.
Addressing large crowds, Shah accused the state government of misgovernance, corruption, and encouraging what he described as a culture of political violence. He alleged that under the Trinamool Congress regime, democratic rights have been curtailed and opposition voices suppressed. Repeatedly invoking the theme of “parivartan” (change), Shah urged voters to bring the BJP to power, promising a shift in governance and development priorities.
The BJP leader also targeted Mamata Banerjee personally, questioning her administration’s track record and accusing her of failing to address key issues such as unemployment, law and order, and alleged corruption in welfare schemes. He claimed that people across Bengal are looking for an alternative and are ready to vote decisively in favour of the BJP.
Shah’s roadshows witnessed significant turnout, with party workers and supporters lining the streets, waving flags and chanting slogans. The BJP leadership views these rallies as a crucial show of strength, particularly ahead of the remaining phases of polling. Party insiders say such high-energy campaigns are aimed at consolidating voter support and energising cadres at the grassroots level.
In response, the Trinamool Congress dismissed Shah’s remarks as “political rhetoric,” accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation to influence voters. TMC leaders countered that their government has delivered on welfare schemes and development, and that the BJP is attempting to import divisive politics into the state.
The exchange highlights the intensifying political battle in West Bengal, where campaigning has reached its peak. With multiple phases of voting still underway, both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress are leaving no stone unturned to sway voters.
As the election draws closer to its decisive stages, Shah’s aggressive campaign strategy underscores the BJP’s determination to make deeper inroads into the state, while Mamata Banerjee’s party continues to defend its record and strong regional base.
