Kolkata, 21 April (H.S.): Ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday claimed that the people of the state were ready to bring a Bharatiya Janata Party government to power this time.

Speaking to reporters, Gupta said her party’s confidence was growing stronger as polling day approached. She said the people of Bengal had witnessed 15 years of fear and pressure politics, and were now prepared for change.

“This time, a government with the lotus symbol is going to be formed in Bengal. When the results are declared on May 4, it will feel like a new sunrise where everyone will be respected,” she said.

Targeting the present state government, Gupta said West Bengal had been passing through difficult circumstances for several years. She also expressed concern over women’s safety and alleged that an atmosphere of fear prevailed in the state.

“How women and daughters are living here is a serious question. There have been repeated allegations of hooliganism linked to the Trinamool Congress. Women do not feel safe. Incidents like RG Kar show that despite having a woman Chief Minister, women are not secure,” she said.

The Delhi Chief Minister also alleged widespread corruption in the state. She claimed that employment, government jobs or any official work could not move forward without “cut money”. She added that farmers were distressed over pending payments, youth were frustrated by unemployment, and women felt unsafe.

Gupta advised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to focus on her own campaign instead of reacting to others, and to listen to the voice of the people.

Meanwhile, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Monday assured that the Election Commission would leave no stone unturned to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections in West Bengal.

Polling for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases, the first on April 23 and the second on April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh