Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday issued an open letter to the people of West Bengal, urging voters to support “poriborton” (change) and development as campaigning concluded for the final phase of the Assembly elections.

The second and last phase of polling, covering 142 Assembly constituencies, is scheduled for April 29. The first phase, held on April 23 across 152 seats, recorded a turnout of 93.19 per cent — the highest since Independence.

Call for change and development

In his letter, Modi said he sensed a strong desire for change among voters across the state, particularly among youth, women, farmers, workers and business communities.

He alleged that many citizens had been living in an atmosphere of fear under the rule of the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), and were now seeking better opportunities, safety and governance.

“The youth want open opportunities to move forward. Daughters want respect and safety. Every citizen, every family in Bengal wants change and move ahead on the path of development,” he said.

The Prime Minister added that people were ready to move towards what he described as a more secure and growth-oriented future under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

‘Developed Bengal’ campaign plank

Reiterating the BJP’s campaign theme of a “Developed Bengal,” Modi said that aspirations for economic growth and improved governance were shared across social and economic groups.

“Be it youth power or women’s power, farmers, workers or businessmen, everyone is committed to a ‘Developed Bengal’,” he stated.

The BJP has centred its campaign on issues such as development, women’s safety, governance reforms and employment opportunities, while criticising the TMC government over law and order, corruption and alleged political violence during its 15-year tenure.

Emotional connect with voters

Reflecting on his campaign experience, Modi described his journey across West Bengal as more than a political exercise, calling it a “spiritual journey.”

He said the warmth and support he received from people across the state left a lasting impression on him, despite the intense campaign schedule and heat.

“In every rally and roadshow, I received immense love and affection from people, something I can never forget,” he said.

The Prime Minister also drew a comparison between his campaign experience and the sense of spiritual connection he had felt during the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in January 2024.

He mentioned that the energy and enthusiasm of voters — especially women, youth and senior citizens — had motivated him throughout the campaign.

Appeal to voters

Along with the letter, Modi released an audio message in Bengali, urging people to vote in large numbers in the final phase and give what he termed a “golden opportunity” to the BJP.

The remaining phase includes key constituencies, including those in Kolkata, making it crucial in determining the final outcome of the election.

Political observers note that high voter turnout in the first phase indicates strong public engagement, and similar participation is expected in the concluding round.

Electoral context

The West Bengal Assembly elections are being closely watched, with the BJP aiming to expand its footprint in the state, while the TMC seeks to retain power.

The results are scheduled to be announced on May 4, which will determine the future political direction of the state.

Conclusion

As West Bengal heads into the final phase of polling, the Prime Minister’s appeal underscores the BJP’s push for change and development, while highlighting the high stakes involved in the election. With strong voter turnout already recorded, the focus now shifts to the decisive second phase that will shape the state’s political landscape.