14 March (TSP Bangla) – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address a major rally at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground on Saturday, in what the BJP hopes will energise its cadre ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Calling it a “historic” event, Union minister of state Sukanta Majumdar said the rally would draw people from across the state and mark one of the party’s biggest pre-election mobilisations. BJP leaders expect Modi to sharpen the party’s campaign by attacking the Mamata Banerjee government, highlighting governance issues, and outlining promises if the BJP comes to power.
Party insiders indicated that the Prime Minister may build on earlier assurances made by Union home minister Amit Shah, including implementing the Seventh Pay Commission, filling vacant government posts, and offering age relaxations for job seekers affected by delays in recruitment.
In a bid to connect with Bengal’s cultural identity, the BJP has designed the rally stage with a replica of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said the installation reflects the spiritual significance of Dakshineswar and its association with Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The stage décor will also feature elements representing Bengal’s heritage, including Darjeeling tea and the terracotta art of Bishnupur.
The party has also been recalibrating its messaging. Since a rally in Durgapur in July, Modi has invoked slogans like “Jai Maa Kali” and “Jai Maa Durga,” moving beyond the traditional “Jai Shri Ram” to counter the Trinamool Congress’s portrayal of the BJP as an “outsider” party.
Trinamool Congress leaders, however, dismissed these efforts. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh termed them “gimmicks” and asserted that the BJP’s cultural outreach would not influence voters.
Within the BJP, there is also an expectation that Modi may address the LPG price issue, which the Trinamool has been highlighting in its campaign. Party leaders said a reassurance from the Prime Minister could help counter public concerns over rising costs.
Meanwhile, the BJP is also focusing on political controversies. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari met Governor R. N. Ravi on Friday, raising the issue of an alleged insult to President Droupadi Murmu and urging action.
Ahead of the rally, Modi held meetings with senior Bengal BJP leaders to finalise candidates for the elections, with around 150 names reportedly cleared.
During his visit, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹18,680 crore in the state, spanning infrastructure, shipping, and railway sectors.
