PM Modi vows to end ‘rule of fear’ in Bengal, promises audit of 15 years of TMC rule

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed a major rally in Katwa in Purba Bardhaman, laying out an extensive electoral pitch ahead of the Assembly elections while launching a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress. He asserted that if the Bharatiya Janata Party comes to power, key central schemes like Ayushman Bharat would be implemented immediately, corruption would be exposed through a white paper, and governance would shift from “fear to trust.” He concluded the rally by expressing confidence that public enthusiasm signals a change in power after May 4.

Focusing on the Matua and refugee communities, Modi said they are protected by the Constitution and not dependent on any political party. Referring to the Citizenship Amendment Act, he assured that the process of granting citizenship to refugees, including the Matuas, would be accelerated further. He also issued a warning that those who allegedly facilitated illegal infiltration or arranged documents for infiltrators would be held accountable under the law.

On governance and welfare, Modi accused the state government of blocking central schemes such as Ayushman Bharat and the PM Vishwakarma scheme. He promised that a BJP-led government would implement Ayushman Bharat in its very first cabinet meeting after taking oath. He also highlighted benefits provided in other states under central schemes, claiming that similar opportunities were denied in West Bengal, leading to losses for artisans and beneficiaries.

Addressing youth, government employees, and women, Modi outlined multiple promises from the party’s manifesto. He said that lakhs of jobs would be created, unemployment allowance would be introduced, and those affected by corruption would receive age relaxation. He added that employment fairs would be organised, all government vacancies would be filled, and employees would receive benefits under the Seventh Pay Commission. For women, he promised ₹3,000 monthly financial support and free travel in government buses, stating that safety and freedom would be ensured under BJP rule.

Modi also targeted the state government on issues affecting farmers and corruption. Referring to Bardhaman’s famous Sitabhog and Mihidana, he alleged that potato farmers are suffering due to mismanagement, with produce going to waste. He promised better support under a “double engine” government. Reiterating his anti-corruption stance, he said BJP would dismantle existing “corruption networks,” examine the past 15 years through a white paper, and ensure transparency in all government work. During the rally, he also praised voter turnout in other states, expressed confidence in BJP’s prospects in Bengal, and interacted warmly with children who presented him with paintings. He is scheduled to address further rallies in Jangipur and Kushmandi as part of his campaign.