By Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday sharpened his attack on the ruling All India Trinamool Congress during a series of rallies in West Bengal, asserting that voters in the state are ready to respond to “violence with votes” in the upcoming Assembly elections. Addressing gatherings in Birbhum district, Shah framed the election as a decisive moment for restoring law and order and ending what he described as a climate of fear under the current government.
Speaking at back-to-back rallies in Mayureshwar and Khayrasole, Shah said the mood on the ground suggested a strong desire for change. He claimed that people across Bengal were determined to move beyond intimidation and political violence, and instead express their will through the ballot. Without naming specific incidents, he alleged that BJP workers and supporters had faced sustained pressure and violence over the years, adding that the party would ensure accountability if voted to power.
In a direct attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Shah accused the state government of allowing corruption and illegal activities to flourish. He alleged the existence of entrenched systems involving “cut money” and local syndicates, and promised strict action against those responsible. According to him, any individual found involved in corruption or intimidation would face legal consequences under a BJP-led administration.
The Home Minister also raised the issue of infiltration, a recurring theme in BJP’s campaign in the state. He said that securing the international border and identifying illegal entrants would be a priority if the party forms the government. Shah further reiterated the BJP’s commitment to implementing a Uniform Civil Code in the state, positioning it as part of a broader governance and legal reform agenda.
On governance, Shah criticised the TMC over alleged irregularities in recruitment, public distribution systems, and welfare schemes. He claimed that funds meant for public benefit had been misused and promised that any misappropriated money would be recovered. He also touched upon concerns around women’s safety, saying that a change in government would bring stronger law enforcement and a more secure environment.
Alongside criticism, Shah outlined a series of welfare and development promises, including financial support for women and youth, improved benefits for farmers, and expanded healthcare access. He emphasised that a “double-engine” government — with the same party in power at both the Centre and the state — would ensure faster implementation of schemes and infrastructure projects.
As campaigning intensifies ahead of polling, Shah’s remarks highlight the BJP’s focus on law and order, corruption, and governance issues in West Bengal. With both sides stepping up their rhetoric, the election is shaping into a high-stakes contest where voter turnout and public sentiment will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
