Kolkata, 22 April (H.S.): Amid the ongoing campaign for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday addressed a series of back-to-back public rallies in Kolkata, launching a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.

Addressing gatherings in Jorasanko and Burrabazar areas, Adityanath raised issues such as law and order, unemployment, industrial decline, cultural identity, and cow protection, urging voters to bring about political change in the state.

Speaking at a rally in Satyanarayan Park in Jorasanko, he said the public enthusiasm reflected a strong desire among people to protect Bengal’s culture and heritage. He described Bengal as a land that inspired the freedom movement and continues to guide the nation through its legacy.

The Chief Minister alleged that unemployment has risen in recent years, industries have shut down, and farmers are facing hardships in the state. He said opportunities for the youth have declined and people are now expecting better governance.

Citing Uttar Pradesh as an example, Adityanath claimed that law and order has significantly improved under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, with strict action taken against crime and mafia elements, leading to stability and peace.

On cultural issues, he emphasized Bengal’s identity and stressed the need to protect traditions, including reverence for Goddess Kali. He said preserving cultural heritage is a collective responsibility.

During his speech, he also raised the issue of cow protection, alleging that cow slaughter is taking place in Bengal, while strict measures have been implemented in Uttar Pradesh to prevent it. “We will neither allow cows to be slaughtered nor let Hindus be divided,” he said.

Taking a swipe at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her slogan “Khela Hobe,” Adityanath countered, saying, “They say ‘Khela Hobe,’ but we say ‘Now the game is over, development will begin.’”

At another rally in Burrabazar, held in support of BJP candidates from North Kolkata constituencies, he claimed that the BJP is winning nearly 80 percent of seats in the first phase.

He further stated that Uttar Pradesh now reflects an atmosphere of “celebration, not unrest,” with the end of mafia rule. He added that strict action is taken against any criminal who attempts to disrupt peace.

Concluding his address, Adityanath urged people to bring change through democratic means and vote for a better and brighter future for West Bengal.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey