Union Home Minister Amit Shah stepped up his campaign in Saptagram, West Bengal. He said that what he described as “Love Jihad” and “Land Jihad” would end if the Bharatiya Janata Party comes to power after the May 4 counting of votes.
At a public rally, Shah launched a direct attack on the Trinamool Congress government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He accused that such issues have increased under its rule. Alongside this, he laid out a wide set of welfare promises covering multiple sections of society.
Welfare promises across sections
To begin with, Shah said the BJP would raise support for farmers under the Kisan Samman Nidhi to ₹9,000 from ₹6,000.
Similarly, he stated that government employees would receive benefits under the 7th Pay Commission along with dearness allowance. In addition, he promised pensions of ₹2,000 for widows, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
Meanwhile, for unemployed youth, Shah announced ₹3,000 per month. At the same time, women would also receive ₹3,000 per month. Moreover, he said women would be allowed free travel in state buses.
Attack on TMC and corruption allegations
Meanwhile, Shah intensified his criticism of the state government. He accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of involvement in scams worth ₹10,000 crore.
According to him, accountability would follow if the BJP comes to power. He added that she would have to return all the misused funds.
In addition, he warned against what he described as intimidation by ruling party workers. Consequently, he urged voters to cast their ballots without fear.
Infiltration and border fencing issue
On infiltration, Shah reiterated the BJP’s position. He said infiltrators take jobs and use resources meant for the poor.
Furthermore, he raised concerns over border fencing. He alleged that the state government has not provided 600 acres of land required by the Border Security Force.
If the BJP forms the government, he said the land would be handed over within 45 days. As a result, he added, fencing work would be completed faster.
Response to Kharge
Separately, Shah responded to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s reported remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he called him a terrorist.
However, Shah strongly rejected the statement. He said it insulted a leader who has spent his life fighting terrorism. He added that voters would respond at the ballot box.
Election context
West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.
Overall, the contest is between the ruling Trinamool Congress, which is seeking a fourth consecutive term, and the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is aiming to convert its previous 77-seat performance into a majority.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, both sides have intensified their messaging ahead of counting day.