Asansol

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that only a BJP-led NDA government can restore the industrial strength of Asansol and free the region from what he described as “mafia rule,” while criticising the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Addressing a public rally, Modi said the election was not merely about a change in government but about reviving the region’s economic base. He alleged that illegal activities such as coal, sand and land mafias had flourished under the current regime, adversely affecting livelihoods and forcing youth to migrate in search of jobs.

The prime minister also criticised successive governments, including the Congress and the Left Front, accusing them of failing to safeguard the interests of West Bengal and contributing to its economic decline. He said people in the state are now looking beyond promises and want governance based on performance.

Referring to the state’s economic contribution, Modi said West Bengal’s share in India’s national income has declined over the decades, blaming previous administrations for the downturn. He further alleged that while the income of ordinary citizens has stagnated, those linked to the ruling party have prospered.

Assuring voters of change, Modi said a BJP government after May 4 would work to address the region’s issues and revive growth.

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Polling for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4. In the 2021 elections, the Trinamool Congress secured a decisive victory, winning 213 seats, while the BJP emerged as the main opposition with 77 seats.