Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Kolkata to release the BJP’s election manifesto, signaling a significant political move in West Bengal. Shah expressed that the state is ready for change, highlighting weariness with the ruling TMC. The visit coincides with heightened political activity as the BJP intensifies its campaign against the Trinamool Congress.
The BJP’s manifesto is anticipated to focus on allegations of corruption and misgovernance by the Trinamool Congress government. It is expected to promise a White Paper detailing 15 years of irregularities under the current regime. Additionally, the party may emphasize cracking down on alleged mafia networks in various sectors like coal, sand, and stone mining, making law and order a key campaign issue.
In terms of welfare initiatives, the BJP might pledge financial aid of Rs 3,000 per month for beneficiaries of the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme. They could also propose similar monthly support for unemployed youth under a proposed ‘Yuva Sathi’ program. The manifesto is likely to include plans for developing Singur as an industrial hub and proposing major infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity between North and South Bengal.
The BJP is expected to address the long-standing demands of state government employees by promising to clear all pending Dearness Allowance dues within 45 days of assuming power. Party leaders have indicated that the manifesto, named ‘Sankalp Patra,’ will combine political attacks on the ruling party with welfare assurances and development commitments as the BJP aims to broaden its presence in the state. Amit Shah reiterated the party’s vision of liberating Bengal from the ‘reign of terror’ of the TMC and engaging directly with the public through outreach programs.
