Political Turmoil Erupts Ahead of PM Modi's Bengal Visit
Political Tensions Rise Before Modi's Trip to West Bengal
A significant political uproar has emerged ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to West Bengal, triggered by the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) sharing a video that allegedly shows an individual being assaulted at a railway station. The TMC claims this incident occurred under the security arrangements for the Prime Minister's event to flag off the Vande Bharat sleeper train. In a post on the social media platform X, the ruling party accused the central forces of intimidating and sidelining marginalized individuals to ensure a seamless photo opportunity during Modi's visit.
Concerns Raised Over Treatment of Citizens
The TMC has raised questions about the treatment of citizens, suggesting that they are viewed as obstacles rather than individuals. The party argues that this incident reflects a governance model that prioritizes appearances over humanity. This allegation surfaced just hours before Modi's arrival in Malda, where he is set to inaugurate India's first Vande Bharat sleeper train running between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya). Additionally, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate infrastructure projects worth over ₹3,250 crores, along with addressing a public gathering.
Political Climate Intensifies
Modi's visit comes amid escalating political tensions in West Bengal. There has been a heated exchange between the BJP and TMC regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list and a recent raid by the Enforcement Directorate on the consultancy firm I-PAC. The TMC has accused the BJP and the Election Commission of harassing voters through the SIR process, while the BJP has denied these claims, asserting that the revision aims to eliminate illegal entries from the voter list. After Malda, the Prime Minister will travel to Assam and return to West Bengal on January 18 to participate in official events, including a rally in Singur, Hooghly district. This visit is being closely watched as the state prepares for assembly elections later this year.