With just days to go for the West Bengal Assembly polls, the BJP has promised a ₹5,000 monthly allowance for journalists, pitching it as financial support with “no division” across the media fraternity.
Kolkata: In a fresh poll promise ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a monthly financial allowance of ₹5,000 for journalists if it comes to power in the state.
The announcement was made by state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya during a meet-the-press interaction at the Press Club in Kolkata on Saturday. He said the proposed scheme would be extended to all accredited journalists, stressing that there would be no discrimination in its implementation. Check the video below:
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“There will be no division among journalists. The scheme will apply to everyone who meets the eligibility criteria,” Bhattacharya stated, underlining the party’s intent to offer equal benefits across the media fraternity.
Striking a lighter tone while addressing the press, he added, “Whether those who write for us, or those who write against us, everyone is our friend,” reinforcing the party’s stance on maintaining a neutral and inclusive approach towards journalists.
Bhattacharya also emphasised the BJP’s commitment to press freedom, saying, “We respect your freedom and rights.” According to him, the initiative is aimed at providing financial support and a sense of security to journalists, many of whom face economic uncertainties despite being integral to the democratic process.
However, he acknowledged that while the proposed ₹5,000 allowance may not be a substantial amount, it is intended as a supportive measure rather than a comprehensive financial solution.
The BJP leader added that detailed guidelines regarding the rollout, eligibility criteria, and implementation of the scheme would be announced at a later stage.
The announcement comes at a crucial time as West Bengal gears up for a high-stakes electoral battle. Polling for the 294-member Assembly will be conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.
With this promise, the BJP appears to be making a direct outreach to the media community, adding another dimension to its campaign strategy in the run-up to the elections.
Published: 19 Apr 2026, 12:51 pm IST
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