By Union Home Minister Amit Shah has struck an optimistic note for the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal, claiming that the party has already built a decisive edge in the first phase of Assembly elections. Addressing a rally a day after polling, Shah said the BJP expects to secure a commanding number of seats from the initial phase itself, setting the tone for what he described as a broader electoral shift in the state.
The first phase, which covered 152 constituencies, recorded an unusually high voter turnout of over 92%, reflecting intense public participation. Shah interpreted this surge as a sign of growing support for political change, asserting that voters have responded positively to the BJP’s campaign centered on governance, security, and welfare delivery.
A key highlight of Shah’s address was his renewed push for the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act in West Bengal. He specifically referenced the Matua community, a significant voter group in several constituencies, stating that a BJP government would ensure citizenship rights are granted without delay. According to Shah, the issue has remained unresolved due to political opposition at the state level, leaving many families in uncertainty.
The Matua community, with historical roots in present-day Bangladesh, has long been at the centre of the citizenship debate in Bengal politics. Shah’s assurance signals the BJP’s continued effort to consolidate support among refugee communities by addressing long-standing demands tied to identity and legal recognition.
Beyond citizenship, Shah also sharpened his criticism of the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, particularly on issues related to women’s safety. Referring to recent high-profile cases, he argued that law and order under the current administration has weakened, affecting public confidence. He positioned the BJP as a party committed to restoring security and creating an environment where women can move freely without fear.
Shah also took aim at remarks attributed to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding safety precautions, suggesting that governance should focus on enabling freedom rather than imposing restrictions. He promised that under a BJP government, ensuring safety would be treated as a top priority rather than a reactive measure.
The Home Minister’s remarks reflect a broader campaign strategy—combining strong electoral claims with targeted promises to key communities and a focus on governance issues. With the second phase of polling scheduled for April 29, the BJP is looking to maintain momentum and build on what it sees as early gains.
As the state moves closer to the final verdict on May 4, Shah’s confidence signals the BJP’s belief that a mix of high turnout, targeted outreach, and issue-based campaigning could reshape Bengal’s political landscape.
