PM Modi Addresses Kolkata Rally, Criticises State Government and Promises Governance Reforms

PTI, March 14, 2026, Kolkata : Addressing a large rally at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and said the “countdown” of the Mamata Banerjee government had begun.

He said that if the BJP forms the government in the state, it would work to strengthen the rule of law and governance.

Accusing the Trinamool Congress of creating an atmosphere of intimidation in West Bengal, he said that after the elections, any wrongdoing would be dealt with through legal processes.

Referring to a recent statement by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the Prime Minister questioned remarks in which she had said that if a community united, it could “finish you off in a second”.

Modi also criticised the state government over an alleged issue involving the visit of President Droupadi Murmu, saying that not providing a proper venue for a cultural programme of the Santhal community in north Bengal had hurt sentiments.

In his speech, the Prime Minister also referred to issues concerning women’s safety in the state, mentioning incidents reported in places such as Sandeshkhali and allegations involving a student in a college union room.

He said that ensuring the dignity and safety of women would be a priority if the BJP came to power in West Bengal.

The Prime Minister also spoke about employment concerns, stating that many young people from the state were moving to other regions in search of jobs.

He alleged that investors had been reluctant to invest in the state in recent years and that economic growth had slowed.

Modi also criticised the state government over its opposition to the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, claiming it was intended to protect what he described as a vote bank linked to illegal immigration.

He further alleged that unchecked immigration had affected the demographic balance in certain parts of the state.

Saturday’s meeting at the Brigade Parade Ground was among the largest political gatherings in recent times in Kolkata.

Many people travelled in organised groups by buses and trucks from different districts of West Bengal, while others also arrived independently to listen to the Prime Minister’s address.