Amit Shah Steps Up Attack on TMC Ahead of First Phase of Bengal Polls

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party’s campaign against the All India Trinamool Congress, escalating political rhetoric just days before the first phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Addressing a public gathering, Shah launched a sharp critique of the ruling party led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, issuing a stern warning over alleged post-poll violence. He cautioned that any attempts to intimidate or harm citizens after polling would invite strict action.

Welfare Promises and Campaign Push

Seeking to consolidate support, the senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader outlined a range of welfare measures targeted at women and youth. He promised a monthly financial assistance of ₹3,000 for women and unemployed youth, along with commitments to build schools in tea plantation areas, grant land ownership rights to workers, provide housing pattas, and increase wages within two years.

Focus on Gorkha Issue

Turning to the long-standing Gorkha issue in the Darjeeling hills, Shah criticised the state government for what he described as a lack of cooperation. He stated that despite convening multiple meetings after assuming office, representatives of the state government did not participate.

He added that the Centre had appointed an interlocutor to engage with Gorkha stakeholders and prepare a report, asserting that a resolution would be pursued independently if the BJP comes to power in the state.

Allegations Over Fund Allocation

Shah also accused the state government of discriminatory allocation of funds, alleging that comparatively lower budgetary provisions had been made for tribal areas, the hills, and North Bengal. He contrasted this with higher allocations for other sectors, framing the issue as one of imbalance in development priorities.

Women’s Safety in Focus

Highlighting concerns around women’s safety, Shah said the election was crucial for ensuring security across the state—from Darjeeling to Kolkata and Ganga Sagar. Referring to recent controversies, including incidents in Sandeshkhali, he alleged widespread failures in law and order under the current administration and pledged stringent action against offenders if voted to power.

Tight Electoral Contest

With the first phase of polling scheduled for April 23, the BJP and TMC remain locked in an intense contest, with both parties stepping up campaign efforts in what is shaping up to be a closely watched electoral battle.