kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, April 22: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a sharp political offensive against the ruling Trinamool Congress during a campaign rally in North Dumdum, accusing the state government of turning Kolkata into what he described as a “settlement city” and raising strong concerns over governance, security, and urban management ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Shah alleged that unchecked infiltration and settlement expansion have significantly altered the character of Kolkata. He claimed that both the Left and the Trinamool Congress governments were responsible for what he termed the transformation of the city, stating that no effective steps had been taken to address the issue. He further alleged that the state leadership had allowed such settlements to expand in order to build political support bases.

Shah also warned that strict action would follow after the elections, asserting that any attempt to create disturbances on polling day would be dealt with firmly. His remarks came amid heightened political tensions as campaigning intensifies across the state.

Turning his attention to civic issues, the Union Minister criticised the condition of urban infrastructure in Kolkata and surrounding areas, claiming that the municipal system was on the verge of financial collapse. He alleged negligence in civic governance had led to the formation of polluted water bodies in several parts of the city, citing examples such as Motijheel, which he said had deteriorated due to administrative failure. According to him, the condition of the city reflects a lack of governance priorities from the state administration.

Shah also targeted the Trinamool Congress over issues of crime, corruption, women’s safety, and industrial decline. He alleged that industries have been leaving West Bengal due to an unfavourable business environment and claimed that thousands of companies had exited the state. He accused ruling party-linked individuals of engaging in corruption and “cut-money” practices, which he said were driving away investment and employment opportunities.

On the issue of industry, Shah asserted that West Bengal had enormous potential but was being held back by mismanagement and lack of policy support. He promised that a Bharatiya Janata Party government would focus on restoring industrial growth, expanding infrastructure, and eliminating syndicate-based practices that he claimed were hindering development.

The Home Minister also outlined an urban development vision for Kolkata and its surrounding regions, stating that the BJP has prepared a roadmap aimed at improving infrastructure and connectivity. He claimed that metro rail expansion would be tripled under a BJP government, alongside broader efforts to modernise civic systems and improve urban living conditions.

Shah further intensified his criticism by alleging that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s political focus was on establishing her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, as her successor. He asserted that such ambitions would not succeed and reiterated that the BJP aimed to bring a leadership model rooted in local identity and governance accountability.

Extending his attack to national opposition parties, Shah also criticised the Congress, accusing it of aligning with the Trinamool Congress on key legislative issues in Parliament. He made strong electoral predictions, claiming poor performance for Congress across multiple states, while asserting that the party would fail to open its account in West Bengal.

With campaigning reaching a peak across the state, Shah’s remarks added further intensity to an already charged political atmosphere, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle in the coming days.