PM Modi says he will return to Bengal for BJP CM swearing-in, attacks TMC rule

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 27) exuded confidence that the BJP would form the next government in West Bengal after the Assembly polls, asserting that he would return to the state for the oath-taking ceremony after results are announced on May 4.

“The people of West Bengal are my family. I will come to West Bengal after May 4 to attend the BJP CM’s oath ceremony,” he said.

Addressing a Vijay Sankalp Sabha in Barrackpore on the final day of campaigning for the April 29 Assembly election phase, Modi struck an optimistic note, predicting “poriborton” (change) in the state.

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Referring to the Revolt of 1857, the prime minister said Barrackpore, which witnessed the first war of Independence, would once again play a historic role. He added that the land which once ignited the freedom movement would now pave the way for change in Bengal, while noting the strong support he has received from the people.

Slams TMC over ‘syndicate raj’

Modi launched a sharp attack on the ruling TMC, accusing it of presiding over “syndicate raj”, political violence and economic decline. He claimed that while the BJP had presented its vision during the campaign, TMC leaders had not even referred to their slogan of “maa, maati, manush”.

According to him, the party had forgotten the very plank on which it rose to power and had not delivered on issues concerning women’s safety, farmers, or the youth. He further alleged that TMC’s politics was driven by “abuse, lies and threats”.

He also referred to local concerns, stating that several industrial mills in Barrackpore had shut down. Alleging the prevalence of a “syndicate raj” under TMC rule, he said a BJP government would restore “people’s rule” in the state.

Focus on eastern states

PM Modi also accused the TMC of disrespecting the armed forces and constitutional institutions, adding that the party had neither presented a report card of its governance nor offered a clear roadmap for the future.

Emphasising the importance of eastern India in national development, he said regions such as Anga (Bihar), Banga (Bengal) and Kalinga (Odisha) were historically central to India’s prosperity.

He said that the weakening of these regions had affected the country’s strength and that their revival is essential for India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation. Invoking “Vande Mataram”, he described it as a symbol that once inspired freedom and should now guide Bengal’s reconstruction.

Drawing parallels with recent BJP gains in neighbouring states, Modi said, “After Odisha and Bihar, the lotus will bloom in West Bengal too this time.”

BJP’s ‘double engine’ pitch

Outlining the BJP’s guarantees, Modi said a BJP government after May 4 would ensure transparency in government jobs and generate employment through industrial growth. He added that government employees would work without fear and receive benefits under the 7th Pay Commission.

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He also spoke about boosting the creative economy by setting up labs in schools and colleges, and implementing schemes such as the 125-day employment guarantee and PM Vishvakarma Yojana.

For street vendors, he promised benefits under the PM SVANidhi Yojana, including access to bank support and credit facilities. He described these assurances as “Modi ki guarantee” and urged voters to elect a BJP chief minister to benefit from a “double engine” government.