Bengal Will Witness a River of Development, Says PM Modi at Malda Rally

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed a massive public rally in Malda, setting the tone for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. Striking a confident and combative note, the Prime Minister declared that Bengal is ready for a new chapter of growth, asserting that the state will now witness a “river of development” under a future BJP-led government.

Addressing thousands of supporters, PM Modi said that the political mood across the country clearly reflects people’s trust in the development-oriented governance model of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Referring to the BJP’s recent electoral performances in Maharashtra and Bihar, he said these victories demonstrate a growing national mandate for stability, infrastructure expansion, and welfare-driven governance.

Boost to Connectivity: Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Flagged Off

A major highlight of the Prime Minister’s visit was the flagging off of India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Malda. Calling it a transformative step for regional connectivity, PM Modi said the new service will significantly improve long-distance travel, enhance comfort for passengers, and strengthen economic integration across regions.

He added that improved rail connectivity plays a crucial role in boosting trade, tourism, and employment, particularly in districts that have historically remained underdeveloped. The Prime Minister said such infrastructure projects reflect the Centre’s commitment to inclusive growth and equal development across states.

Attack on TMC Government

Launching a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress, PM Modi accused the state government of being “merciless” and working against the interests of the poor. He alleged that several flagship central welfare schemes were deliberately blocked in Bengal for political reasons.

The Prime Minister specifically mentioned Ayushman Bharat and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, claiming that eligible beneficiaries in Bengal were denied benefits due to the state government’s refusal to implement these initiatives fully. He said the BJP remains committed to ensuring that every poor household receives healthcare cover, affordable electricity, and basic welfare support.

Illegal Immigration and Security Concerns

PM Modi also raised concerns over illegal immigration, stating that unchecked infiltration has adversely affected employment opportunities, land rights, and social harmony in the state. He promised that a BJP government in Bengal would take decisive action against infiltrators while safeguarding the rights and security of local citizens.

At the same time, he reiterated that genuine refugees would continue to receive protection under the Citizenship Amendment Act, emphasising that humanitarian considerations would remain central to the government’s approach.

Poll Pitch Focused on Development

Framing the upcoming elections as a choice between corruption and development, PM Modi urged the people of Bengal to give the BJP an opportunity to serve the state. He said that Bengal has immense potential in industry, agriculture, and human capital, which can only be unlocked through transparent governance and strong coordination with the Centre.

The rally in Malda is being seen as a key moment in the BJP’s election campaign, signalling an aggressive push to expand its footprint in Bengal. With development, welfare delivery, and national security forming the core of his message, the Prime Minister sought to project confidence that the state is ready for political change.