Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on Monday, said that “Vande Mataram” played a central role in India’s freedom struggle and should now become a guiding principle for the reconstruction and development of Bengal in the 21st century. He assured people in West Bengal of development, employment opportunities, and improved security, stating that his government aims to transform the state into one of prosperity, peace, and happiness. Addressing a public gathering in Barrackpore, he said that “Vande Mataram” once inspired the fight against colonial rule and should now inspire Bengal’s revival and growth.

He added that his vision for the state includes turning “sujalam sufalam” into a policy direction, making “shasyashyamala” a foundation for employment generation, using “malayaja sheetala” as a symbol of peace and prosperity, and channeling the strength of Goddess Durga as a guarantee of justice and security for all citizens.

PM Modi also stated that under a BJP-led government, no citizen would face discrimination on the basis of caste or community. He promised strict action against illegal infiltrators while assuring that people from the Matua community would be granted citizenship benefits. He also criticized the TMC, alleging that it had failed to respect the mandate of voters, and urged people to support the BJP for establishing a “double-engine” government in the state.

Referring to the ongoing election process, he noted that the first phase of polling on April 23 witnessed a very high turnout of 92.35%, indicating strong voter participation despite tight security arrangements. He also mentioned that the second phase of voting is scheduled for April 29, while results are expected to be announced on May 4 along with other states.