Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday delivered a strong political message from Onda, intensifying the Bharatiya Janata Party’s campaign in West Bengal ahead of the upcoming polling dates.
Addressing a public gathering, Shah accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of fostering a climate of fear and political violence in the state. He claimed that more than 300 BJP workers have lost their lives in election-related violence, alleging that those responsible have operated with impunity under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
“Those who targeted BJP workers will be brought to justice once a BJP government is formed,” he said, signaling a tough stance against alleged perpetrators.
With voting scheduled on April 23 and 29, Shah urged citizens across Bengal to participate in the democratic process without fear. He emphasized that the Election Commission has deployed central paramilitary forces to ensure peaceful polling.
“Peace must prevail on voting days. People should step out and vote fearlessly,” he said, adding a warning that attempts to disrupt the electoral process would not be tolerated.
Shah also turned his focus to governance issues, alleging that the state’s youth are being forced to migrate due to lack of opportunities, while farmers continue to struggle for fair prices. He specifically highlighted the plight of potato farmers, claiming that policy decisions had restricted supply to neighboring states like Odisha and Jharkhand, causing financial distress.
Promising corrective measures, Shah said that under a BJP-led government, farmers would gain access to wider markets across India and receive the full value of their produce.
He further raised concerns about healthcare infrastructure in the region, alleging shortages of doctors and nurses in super specialty hospitals, along with claims of corruption in welfare delivery. Referring to central schemes providing free food grains, Shah accused local elements of siphoning off benefits meant for the poor.
“We will ensure that every grain reaches the rightful beneficiary,” he said, promising stricter implementation mechanisms.
The rally comes at a time of heightened political tensions in West Bengal, with sharp exchanges between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress dominating the campaign narrative. As the state heads into crucial polling phases, the focus remains firmly on voter turnout, security, and the broader political battle shaping Bengal’s future.
