“Girls roam freely at night in Assam, not after 7 pm in Bengal”: Amit Shah says ‘time to say tata-bye bye to Hirak Rani’

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday launched a sharp political attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, referring to her as “Hirak Rani” while addressing an election rally in Onda, Bankura. He also issued a stern warning to alleged Trinamool Congress-backed miscreants, stating that strict action would be taken if they attempted to disrupt the voting process, and assured that arrangements were being made to ensure free and fair elections under central force protection.

Addressing supporters, Shah cautioned that those trying to interfere with the democratic process would face consequences after the elections. He said that individuals involved in violence or intimidation should refrain from stepping out on polling day, adding that any attempt to trouble voters would not be tolerated. He emphasised that the BJP is committed to ensuring a peaceful voting environment and claimed that central forces would act decisively against any disruption.

The Union Minister also raised the issue of political violence, alleging that several BJP workers were killed after previous elections. He warned that those responsible for crimes committed under the current administration, including cases involving violence against women, would be held accountable if the BJP comes to power. According to Shah, a future BJP government would initiate legal action against such individuals and ensure that justice is delivered.

Highlighting governance and development issues, Shah accused the state government of fostering corruption and running a “syndicate system” that allegedly forces people to pay extra for basic construction materials like bricks, cement, and sand. He claimed that this system would be dismantled if the BJP forms the government and added that a judicial commission would be set up to investigate corruption cases, with those found guilty being sent to jail. He also promised to secure Geographical Indication tags for Baluchari sarees and Panchmura terracotta horses, while promoting the cultural heritage of Bishnupur.

On economic and public welfare concerns, Shah pointed to the plight of farmers, particularly potato cultivators in Bankura, alleging that they are unable to sell their produce at fair prices due to policy failures. He promised that a BJP government would facilitate better market access, export produce to other states, and establish a dedicated board for affected farmers. Additionally, he raised concerns about illegal sand mining, healthcare infrastructure gaps, and irregularities in ration distribution, pledging reforms including stricter monitoring systems to ensure transparency and accountability.