Bishnupur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a sharp political attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC), issuing what he termed a “last chance” to alleged corrupt elements ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal.
Addressing a BJP rally in Bishnupur, Modi warned “goons, syndicates, and corrupt elements” to surrender before April 29, stating that strict action would follow thereafter.
“I am giving one last chance… surrender at your nearest police station. No one will be spared after May 4,” he said, signalling a tough stance on law and order.
Focus on women-centric welfare promises
The Prime Minister also unveiled a series of promises aimed at women voters, a crucial electoral demographic in the state. He said that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) comes to power, women would receive free rations and ₹36,000 annually through a proposed ‘Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card’.
“The safety and prosperity of women are our priorities,” Modi said, alleging that corruption under the current government has deprived beneficiaries of welfare schemes.
He further promised financial support of up to ₹1.5 lakh under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for women to build permanent houses.
Criticism of TMC governance
Modi accused the ruling TMC government of failing to deliver benefits effectively due to corruption. He claimed that women in West Bengal are not receiving the same level of welfare support available in BJP-ruled states such as Assam, Tripura, Odisha and Bihar.
The remarks form part of the BJP’s broader campaign strategy to target governance issues and highlight welfare delivery gaps.
TMC counters with existing schemes
The TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has already rolled out its flagship Lakshmi Bhandar scheme.
Under this initiative, women in the general category receive ₹1,500 per month, while SC/ST women receive ₹1,700. The party has also promised financial assistance for unemployed youth as part of its poll commitments.
Crucial elections ahead
The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting set for May 4.
Mamata Banerjee is seeking a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP is aiming to improve on its previous performance, where it secured 77 seats.
Conclusion
With both the BJP and TMC intensifying their campaigns, the focus on corruption, governance, and welfare schemes—especially those targeting women voters—is expected to play a decisive role in the electoral outcome. The coming weeks are likely to witness heightened political rhetoric as parties vie for voter support.