Kolkata, April 23: A high voter turnout recorded in the first phase of West Bengal Assembly elections has triggered sharp political assertions, with Prime Minister stating that women and youth are driving an active shift against the ruling Trinamool Congress.
Addressing a campaign rally at Mathurapur in South 24 Parganas district, which will vote in the second phase on April 29, the Prime Minister said the strong polling percentage across 162 constituencies reflects a mood for change in the state.
He stated that despite hot weather conditions, voter participation has remained strong, particularly among women and first-time voters. According to him, this level of engagement indicates that sections such as women and youth are at the forefront of political change in West Bengal.
The Prime Minister also linked the sentiments of women voters to the recent developments in Parliament, stating that opposition to the Women’s Reservation (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha had influenced public opinion among women in the state. He claimed that this had led to growing dissatisfaction among women towards the Trinamool Congress and its allies.
Referring to women’s safety and empowerment, he said voters would respond to what he described as concerns over safety conditions in the state. He also asserted that West Bengal, traditionally associated with cultural symbols of Ma Kali and Ma Durga, was facing concerns related to women’s safety under the current administration.
The Prime Minister further stated that the level of voter enthusiasm in the ongoing polling phase indicated a shift in political sentiment. He claimed that May 4 would mark a decisive outcome in the electoral process and a turning point in the state’s political direction after what he described as 15 years of rule by the Trinamool Congress.
He also raised concerns over corruption, violence, and crime in the state, stating that these issues would come to an end if there is a change in government.
On the issue of illegal infiltration, he alleged that it was affecting local livelihoods, particularly fishermen in South 24 Parganas. He further claimed that the ruling party supported continued infiltration for political gain, a charge made during the campaign address.
The remarks come amid high-stakes polling in West Bengal, where voter participation and political rhetoric have intensified the contest between major political forces.
