PM Modi accuses TMC of blocking Women’s Reservation Bill, warns electoral consequences in West Bengal. Highlights tribal neglect, corruption, and promises welfare reforms, positioning BJP as pro-women and development-focused ahead of crucial Assembly elections.
Sharp political rhetoric dominated the campaign trail in northern West Bengal on Sunday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a fierce attack on the Trinamool Congress, accusing it of conspiring to block the Women’s Reservation (Amendment) Bill and warning of electoral consequences in the upcoming state Assembly elections.
Addressing a rally in the Darjeeling district, the Prime Minister alleged that the Trinamool Congress, along with the Indian National Congress and other opposition groups, had attempted to stall the landmark legislation aimed at enhancing women’s representation in legislative bodies. He asserted that women voters in West Bengal would respond decisively at the ballot box.
“The mothers and sisters of West Bengal will punish those who tried to deny them their rightful representation,” Modi said, claiming that the ruling party in the state had “betrayed women’s aspirations” by opposing the bill in Parliament.
The Women’s Reservation Bill seeks to ensure greater participation of women in governance by reserving seats in legislative assemblies and Parliament. Modi framed the issue as a turning point in gender empowerment, contrasting his government’s stance with what he described as obstructionist politics by opposition parties.
During his speech, Modi also turned his focus to tribal communities, accusing the state government of neglecting their concerns. He alleged that the Trinamool Congress prioritized political interests over addressing the needs of indigenous populations in the state.
“The voices of tribal communities are being ignored, while political attention is diverted elsewhere,” he said, further accusing the state administration of disregarding constitutional provisions and judicial observations related to welfare measures.
The Prime Minister also referenced Droupadi Murmu, highlighting her identity as the country’s first tribal President. He criticized opposition parties for their stance during the presidential election, suggesting that they were unwilling to support a candidate from a tribal background.
Drawing parallels with historical political rivalries, Modi invoked the legacy of B. R. Ambedkar, arguing that similar political tactics were being repeated to sideline leaders from marginalized communities.
The rally speech also emphasized welfare promises, with Modi outlining a range of initiatives that he said would be implemented if the Bharatiya Janata Party gains power in West Bengal. These included free ration schemes, financial assistance for housing under central government programs, and expanded healthcare coverage through national initiatives.
He criticized the state government for not implementing flagship central schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, which provides health insurance coverage for economically vulnerable families. According to Modi, a change in government would ensure that women receive better access to healthcare, housing, and financial security.
The Prime Minister further accused the ruling party of fostering corruption and perpetuating what he described as a “cut-money culture,” alleging that public welfare benefits were being siphoned off. He claimed that voters in the state were increasingly seeking transparency and development-oriented governance.
| Also Read: PM Modi’s surprise Jhargram jhalmuri stop delights locals during campaign |
The political contest in West Bengal has intensified in recent months, with both the BJP and Trinamool Congress sharpening their campaign narratives ahead of the Assembly elections. Women’s empowerment, tribal rights, and governance have emerged as key themes in the ongoing political discourse.
As campaigning gathers momentum, the debate over the Women’s Reservation Bill is likely to remain a central issue, reflecting broader questions about representation, governance, and political accountability in one of India’s most politically dynamic states.
