‘You are my family’: Narendra Modi predicts BJP win in Bengal elections

Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a Vijay Sankalp rally in Barrackpore in West Bengal, ahead of the second phase of Assembly elections scheduled for April 29. The rally marked his final public campaign event in the state for the ongoing polls.

During his address, Modi said that based on his campaign experience across the state, he expects a favourable result for the Bharatiya Janata Party when votes are counted on May 4. He stated that he may return to the state for a potential oath-taking ceremony if the party secures victory.

Highlights personal connection with Bengal

The Prime Minister also spoke about his long-standing association with Bengal, describing it as significant to his personal and spiritual journey. He said his experiences in the state have been shaped by its cultural legacy and interactions with people.

Modi referred to the messages, letters, and artworks he receives during rallies and roadshows, noting that he reviews them after events. He said these interactions reflect public sentiment, including both concerns and support expressed by citizens.

Highlighting his political career, Modi said he has spent decades travelling across India as part of party and organisational responsibilities. He added that his work has involved continuous engagement in election-related activities without regard to time or conditions.

Contest in Barrackpore constituency

The Barrackpore Assembly constituency in North 24 Parganas district is set for a triangular contest. The BJP has fielded Kaustav Bagchi, while the All India Trinamool Congress has nominated sitting MLA Raj (Raju) Chakraborty. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has also entered the race with its candidate.

Ahead of his campaign events, Modi visited the historic Thanthania Kalibari temple in Kolkata, a centuries-old religious site associated with Goddess Kali. The temple has historical and cultural significance and has been visited by notable spiritual figures such as Ramakrishna Paramahansa.

Polling for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections concluded with a voter turnout of 91.78 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India. The second phase is scheduled for April 29, and counting of votes will take place on May 4.