Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stepped up his attacks on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the government in the state.
Addressing four rallies across tribal belts in Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, and West Midnapore's Belda, Modi said the BJP will come to power in the state after the two-phase elections.
Modi framed the election as a wider battle over Bengal's identity, language, and culture, accusing the TMC of favouring 'infiltrators', neglecting tribals, and presiding over corruption and 'cut-money' politics.
He also targeted the state government over reservation policies and alleged neglect of the Kurmi community, which has been demanding Scheduled Tribe status.
Referring to President Droupadi Murmu, Modi accused the TMC of disrespecting tribal communities, citing a row during her March visit to the state.
The Prime Minister outlined welfare promises from the BJP's manifesto, including financial assistance for women, housing support, and schemes for tribal and marginal communities.
Mamata Banerjee countered the remarks in a post on X, saying her party has consistently supported women's political representation.
The results of the elections will be announced on May 4.
