Kolkata, 14 March (H.S.): Supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from the remote areas of the Sundarbans started early on Saturday to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mega rally at Kolkata’s historic Brigade Parade Ground.

Large numbers of party workers and supporters from island regions such as Sagar Island, Namkhana and Patharpratima first crossed rivers by boats to reach the mainland before proceeding towards Kolkata to attend the rally.

Given the difficult geographical conditions of the Sundarbans, where waterways remain the primary mode of transport, many supporters began their journey early in the morning to ensure their timely arrival at the venue.

Visuals from the region showed groups of supporters boarding boats carrying party flags as they made their way towards the city. BJP leaders said the participation of people from remote rural areas reflects growing enthusiasm among party supporters ahead of the upcoming political contests in the state.

A BJP supporter travelling from the Sundarbans said, “We are travelling by boat today because Modi ji is coming to address the Brigade rally. We want to listen to his speech. There has been a lot of corruption under the present state government. Even rice meant for the people has been siphoned off in scams. We want change in 2026.”

Another supporter said that people from different regions and communities were coming together to attend the rally.

Prime Minister Modi’s address at the Brigade Parade Ground is expected to be one of the largest political gatherings in the state this year. The rally is also being seen as the culmination of the BJP’s statewide outreach campaign ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

During his visit, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several key infrastructure projects, including major national highway projects aimed at improving connectivity in West Bengal.

Party leaders are expecting a massive turnout, with supporters from various districts reaching Kolkata since early morning to participate in the event.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh