Kolkata/Delhi, April 24 (H.S.): After the completion of the first phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly elections, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress government while addressing a massive public rally in Dum Dum. He claimed that the first phase of voting has sealed the wave of change in the state and signaled the beginning of the party’s victory.

Prime Minister Modi said that the sentiment for change that had been visible in Bengal for a long time has now been clearly reflected in the first phase of polling. He stated that the people, by supporting the BJP, have indicated a shift in power.

Accusing the Trinamool Congress of weakening democracy, he said that in a Bengal where attempts were made to crush the temple of democracy, the people have rebuilt it through their votes. He appealed to voters to participate in even greater numbers in the upcoming phases and hoist the flag of victory.

The Prime Minister said that a single voice is being heard across the state—that Bengal wants change and a BJP government. Referring to the land of Subhas Chandra Bose, he described the election as a moment of a new revolution. He remarked that Bengal is a land of brave hearts and claimed that in the first phase, the “lamp” of Trinamool has been extinguished. He added that just as a lamp flickers before going out, the TMC is now wavering, and called upon voters to ensure victory in the next phase.

Highlighting women’s issues, Prime Minister Modi said that the Trinamool Congress is anti-women, whereas the BJP works on a development model based on women’s leadership. He asserted that the dreams of Bengal’s daughters will not be crushed and that once in power, every case of injustice against women will be reopened.

He said that under a BJP government in the state, women will receive security, dignity, economic empowerment, housing, and healthcare benefits. He also noted that the Ayushman scheme is not implemented in Bengal, but if the BJP forms the government, people will receive free treatment up to ₹5 lakh.

Referring to the middle class, the Prime Minister said their interests would be given top priority under a BJP government. He mentioned tax relief, affordable digital services, and housing schemes, adding that a double-engine government would accelerate development.

Prime Minister Modi also raised the issue of the alleged syndicate system and industrial decline in the state. He said that hollow promises and the syndicate culture of the Trinamool Congress have harmed industries, including small and medium enterprises, across Bengal and Kolkata. He alleged that factories are shutting down, youth are being forced to migrate, and employment opportunities are shrinking.

Speaking about local issues in Dum Dum, he highlighted waterlogging, outdated drainage systems, and traffic congestion as major concerns. He said there is a need to transform Dum Dum into a modern and well-planned area, which, according to him, only the BJP can achieve.

Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi said that after the results on May 4, Trinamool Congress “goons” will have no place to hide and the people will respond. He urged voters to cast their votes in large numbers and ensure victory for BJP candidates.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar