News Flash Daily
23 February 
Ahead of Assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says Bengal’s anguish pains him, promises ‘Viksit Paschim Banga’; TMC dismisses letter as political theatrics
Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he was “heartbroken” by the condition of West Bengal under the rule of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, asserting that a political change in the state is inevitable. His remarks came weeks ahead of the declaration of the West Bengal Assembly election schedule.
In a public appeal addressed to the people of Bengal, Modi said citizens across the state were facing “deceit and anguish”, and pledged to correct the situation by building a “Viksit Paschim Banga”, aligning the state with the accelerated development witnessed in other parts of the country.
Open Letter to Bengal Voters
In an open letter written in Bengali, the Prime Minister said that while political change was unavoidable, a “judicious choice” by voters would help Bengal realise its true potential and restore its historical pride. He appealed to voters to support governance focused on development, transparency, and inclusive growth.
“I am deeply saddened by the suffering, anguish, and betrayal faced by people across West Bengal. A new direction is inevitable, and together we can build a Viksit Paschim Banga,” Modi said in the letter.
He further noted that Bengal, which once led India in culture, education, and industry, deserved governance that matched its legacy and aspirations.
BJP Pushes Development Narrative Ahead of Polls
The letter is seen as part of the BJP’s broader outreach strategy in Bengal, where the party has repeatedly accused the Trinamool Congress government of corruption, misgovernance, and political violence. Modi maintained that aligning Bengal with the Centre’s development agenda would ensure economic growth and social justice for all sections of society.
TMC Rejects PM’s Claims
Responding sharply, Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh dismissed the Prime Minister’s letter as “nothing more than theatrics” ahead of elections. He questioned the Centre’s intentions and accused the BJP-led government of withholding funds meant for the state.
“If the Prime Minister is truly concerned about Bengal, why were funds stopped? This letter is just political drama before the elections,” Ghosh said.
The TMC reiterated that the state government has consistently worked for welfare schemes, social security, and infrastructure development despite alleged financial constraints imposed by the Centre.
Political Temperature Rises in Bengal
With Assembly elections approaching, political rhetoric in Bengal is intensifying. While the BJP is projecting the need for change and development-driven governance, the ruling TMC is defending its track record and accusing the Centre of political vendetta.
