New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, claiming the party is in “panic mode” due to growing public support for the Bharatiya Janata Party. Addressing election rallies in Purba Bardhaman and later in Jangipur, he promised major changes in governance if the BJP forms the next government in the state.
He assured voters that law and order would improve under BJP rule. He said women would feel safe and those involved in political violence would face strict action.
Focus on infiltration and corruption
At the rally in Purba Bardhaman, PM Modi said illegal infiltration would be dealt with firmly. He promised that all infiltrators would be expelled from the state. He also said action would be taken against those who supported them.
“The BJP will release a White Paper regarding corruption and law and order so that every TMC goon, syndicate and corrupt MLA or minister can be held fully accountable under the law,” PM Modi said. He added that a commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge would probe cases of political violence.
Welfare schemes and governance changes
The prime minister said the BJP would not stop welfare schemes started by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He said the focus would be on ending corruption and improving delivery.
He also promised that the Ayushman Bharat scheme would be implemented in West Bengal in the first cabinet meeting after the BJP forms the government. Modi said the current syndicate system would be replaced with a transparent tender process.
“In place of the ‘Syndicate’ system, a transparent tender process will be established for every undertaking,” he said.
Strong pitch in Jangipur rally
At the Jangipur rally, Modi stressed national security and promised to implement the Uniform Civil Code if the BJP comes to power. He said the party would defeat the TMC just as it defeated the Left alliance earlier.
“TMC has forgotten that West Bengal is the land of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. People of Bengal are not afraid of the TMC. This year, people of Bengal have made up their minds, they will not bow down to TMC’s threats and its syndicate. They will not tolerate the atrocities against TMC,” PM Modi said.
He also referred to incidents like Sandeshkhali and the RG Kar case while attacking the ruling party.
West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4, according to the Election Commission.