Union Home Minister sharpens rhetoric in poll-bound West Bengal, accuses Mamata Banerjee government of corruption and appeasement
Amit Shah on Wednesday launched a strong attack on the All India Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, accusing it of corruption, poor governance, and “appeasement politics” during its 15-year rule.
Addressing multiple election rallies across north Bengal, including in Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar, Shah also invoked religious and political themes, raising the contentious issue of the Babri Masjid.
“No Babri Masjid will be built in Bengal”
Referring to Humayun Kabir, who recently floated the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, Shah said the BJP would not allow any attempt to construct a Babri Masjid-like structure in the state.
He said, “Let me make it clear—no Babri Masjid will be allowed to be constructed in Bengal.”
Shah also alleged that a purported sting operation involving Kabir was a conspiracy aimed at defaming the BJP.
Ram Temple and historical narrative
Invoking the Ram Temple Ayodhya, Shah defended its construction and criticised past governments.
He said, “Was it not justified to set up the Ram temple in Ayodhya? The Mughals, Congress and Didi prevented its construction for 550 years. In 2019, you gave Modiji a second term and he built the Ram temple.”
Promises on UCC and welfare
The senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader also promised major policy changes if the party comes to power in West Bengal.
He said a Uniform Civil Code would be implemented to address issues like “love jihad,” adding that people would “marry only once” under such a system.
Shah further promised financial and social benefits, including implementation of the 7th Pay Commission for state employees, a monthly allowance of ₹3,000 for women, and free bus travel.
Allegations of regional imbalance and appeasement
Shah accused the government led by Mamata Banerjee of neglecting north Bengal while favouring certain communities.
He claimed that ₹5,700 crore was spent for Muslims, compared to ₹1,200 crore for north Bengal, alleging a “stepmotherly attitude” towards the region.
Warning to political workers
In a controversial remark, Shah warned workers of the ruling party to “stay indoors” during the first phase of polling on April 23, suggesting they could face action after election results.
