Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing a significant rally to kickstart the BJP's Lok Sabha campaign in Kolkata, emphatically declared that the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) is inevitable, asserting that no one can obstruct it. Shah launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of appeasement, infiltration, corruption, and political violence, which he claimed had "destroyed" the state.
In his address, Shah urged the people of West Bengal to oust Banerjee's government in the 2026 assembly polls and laid emphasis on establishing a foundation for this by supporting the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He challenged the citizens to give the BJP a substantial mandate in the 2024 polls, envisioning a scenario where Prime Minister Modi acknowledges Bengal's pivotal role in his election as PM.
Shah criticised the alleged misrule of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), citing corruption, infiltration, and political violence. He accused the TMC-led syndicate of hindering the flow of funds from the Modi government to the state's poor.
Highlighting the significant rise in funding under the BJP government compared to the Congress-led UPA, Shah argued that Banerjee's opposition to the CAA is detrimental to the state's development. He commended the large turnout at the rally, interpreting it as a reflection of the people's mood, and confidently predicted a two-thirds majority for the BJP in the state in 2026.
Addressing the contentious CAA issue, Shah declared that the law will be implemented despite opposition. He pointed out the success of Assam in curbing infiltration after the BJP came to power, contrasting it with West Bengal's persistence due to the TMC's vote-bank politics.
Mamata has destroyed Bengal: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah took the stage at a public rally in Dharmatala, addressing crucial concerns and emphasising the BJP's vision for West Bengal's future. Shah began by acknowledging the support received from the people of West Bengal and expressing gratitude for the 18 Lok Sabha and 77 assembly seats bestowed upon the BJP. During his speech, Shah highlighted the suspension of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from the assembly by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Despite this, Shah asserted that the people's voices cannot be silenced, stating, "You can suspend him, but you cannot silence the people of Bengal. They are saying that your time is over."
Addressing critical issues, Shah questioned the status quo in West Bengal, asking whether there has been any change in appeasement, political violence, or corruption. He alleged that funds sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the welfare of the state are not reaching the intended recipients due to the alleged interference of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
A significant focus of Shah's address was the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). He declared, "CAA is the law of the country, and no one can stop it. We will implement it." Shah firmly emphasized that the BJP is committed to implementing CAA, despite opposition from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Shah also predicted a strong BJP presence in the upcoming elections, envisioning the party forming a government with a two-thirds majority in the 2026 assembly polls. He attributed this confidence to the support the BJP aims to garner in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, urging voters to provide the party with enough seats for a resounding victory.
On a somber note, Shah touched upon the alarming statistic of 212 BJP workers reportedly killed in West Bengal. He asserted that the people would avenge these deaths through their votes in the 2026 assembly polls, reflecting the intensity of political struggles in the state.
The rally showcased Shah's unwavering commitment to the BJP's agenda for West Bengal, setting the stage for intense political competition in the state.
Also read | Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari suspended for winter session of assembly for using objectionable language
