Amit Shah discusses Bengal panchayat elections with State BJP Chief

In a crucial development ahead of the Panchayat elections in West Bengal, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had a detailed conversation with State BJP President Sukant Majumdar. The phone call revolved around various aspects of the electoral process, including the role of the election commissioner, police arrangements, and the deployment of central forces.

Amit Shah inquired about the party's preparations and expressed concern over the reported incidents of violence during the election campaigns. He sought information on the casualties resulting from election-related violence and the steps taken by the state government to address the issue.

During their conversation, Shah lauded the resilience and courage demonstrated by BJP candidates and workers in the face of alleged atrocities by the ruling Trinamool Congress. Sukant Majumdar apprised Shah of the overall political landscape and expressed concerns about potential attacks by the ruling party on election day. He also raised apprehensions about attempts to tamper with ballot boxes and the alleged production of fake ballot papers.

Political analysts view Amit Shah's phone call as a clear indication that the BJP is actively invested in the Panchayat elections under central leadership. It is worth noting that no central BJP leadership has campaigned for the elections, with only state leaders, ministers, MPs, and MLAs being involved in the campaign efforts. Amit Shah's phone call has provided a boost of enthusiasm for BJP workers in light of the central leadership's interest.

The upcoming Panchayat elections are regarded as a crucial test for the BJP, given the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the following year. During his recent visit to Bengal, Amit Shah had set a target of winning 34 seats for the party. With an eye on the Lok Sabha elections, the Bengal BJP is focused on strengthening its organizational structure through the Panchayat elections.

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress has also deployed its full force for the Panchayat elections, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressing election meetings in North Bengal. However, her campaign involvement has been affected by injuries sustained during an emergency helicopter landing. In her absence, Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has taken charge of the campaign, alongside MPs, MLAs, and senior party leaders actively campaigning in their respective areas.