North 24 Parganas (West Bengal): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp political attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) during a high-voltage election rally in the Rajarhat Gopalpur Assembly constituency, asserting that Bengal’s cultural identity is rooted in “Maa Kali and Maa Durga,” not external influences.
Addressing a large gathering on the final day of campaigning for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Adityanath campaigned in support of BJP candidate Tarun Jyoti Tiwari and called for the formation of a “double engine government” in the state. His speech was met with loud chants of “Yogi-Yogi” from supporters उपस्थित at the venue.
“Bengal Has Chosen Change”
Adityanath claimed that the people of West Bengal have made up their minds for political change, citing early voting trends from the first phase of polling. “Every youth, every sister and daughter has risen in support of a double engine government,” he said.
He also alleged that the state government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee denied permission for a planned roadshow, forcing the BJP to convert it into a public meeting. “Once the double engine government is formed, we will return with a grand roadshow,” he added.
Criticism of Governance and Law & Order
The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister accused the TMC regime of turning Bengal from a “cultural capital” into a “crime capital,” blaming both TMC and previous Left governments for economic decline and deteriorating law and order.
He alleged that industries are shutting down, unemployment is rising, and farmers are facing distress. He further claimed that incidents related to “lawlessness and social tensions” have increased, urging voters to use elections as a means to bring change.
Religious and Cultural Remarks
In one of the most striking remarks of his speech, Adityanath said, “In the heart of Bengal are Maa Kali and Maa Durga,” emphasizing the state’s traditional spiritual identity. He accused the TMC leadership of being selective in allowing religious events, alleging restrictions on Durga Puja processions while permitting other gatherings.
Referring to his visit to Tarakeshwar temple earlier in the day, he said that the site could have seen large-scale development similar to the transformation of Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor in Varanasi if a BJP government were in power.
Showcasing Uttar Pradesh Model
Highlighting governance in Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said that since 2017, the state has witnessed improved law and order, infrastructure growth, and economic progress. He claimed that “mafias and criminals have been dealt with strictly,” adding that development projects such as expressways and airports have accelerated growth.
He reiterated his government’s “bulldozer action” policy against criminals, stating that “those involved in illegal activities face strict consequences,” and alleged that TMC-linked elements are now “fearful” of such measures.
Political Context and Significance
The rally marked the culmination of BJP’s campaign efforts in the region ahead of the Vidhan Sabha elections. The party has been aggressively targeting the ruling TMC on issues of governance, corruption, and law and order, while projecting a development-oriented alternative.
The चुनाव in West Bengal are being closely watched as a key political contest, with national leaders intensifying campaigns in the final phase.
Conclusion
With sharp rhetoric, cultural references, and a focus on governance, Yogi Adityanath’s rally in Rajarhat Gopalpur added momentum to the BJPs campaign narrative in West Bengal. As polling progresses, the election is expected to hinge on issues of development, identity, and public perception of governance models.
