Prime Minister Narendra Modi has intensified his criticism of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal, vowing to oust it from power. Modi's campaign hinges on accusations of widespread corruption and the claim that government funds intended for the state's development are being misappropriated by TMC cadres. He asserts that this corruption is hindering West Bengal's progress and depriving its citizens of essential welfare benefits.

Modi has accused the TMC of fostering a culture of "lies, lawlessness, and loot". He alleges that crime and corruption have become a "full-time business" under TMC rule. Addressing rallies in the state, Modi has directly attacked Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her government of failing to protect the people of Bengal and allowing the state to lag behind in development. He has also criticized the TMC's opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), claiming the party is enabling demographic changes by allowing the influx of Rohingyas and infiltrators.

Accusations of corruption against the TMC are not new. Several TMC leaders have faced arrest and investigation in connection with various scams, including those related to school recruitments and cattle smuggling. These incidents have significantly impacted the party's image, leading to internal turmoil and public criticism. Even within the TMC, concerns have been raised about corruption at the grassroots level, with allegations of party positions being sold for large sums of money.

The Prime Minister has presented the BJP as an alternative, promising a "Vikshit Bengal" (Developed Bengal) under a "double-engine" government. He has highlighted the central government's increased financial allocations to West Bengal, particularly for railway projects, as evidence of the BJP's commitment to the state's development. Modi has also invoked Bengali pride, asserting that the BJP embraces Bengali identity and traditions.

Modi's offensive comes as West Bengal gears up for crucial elections in 2026. The BJP is seeking to capitalize on the TMC's perceived vulnerabilities, aiming to replicate its success in other states by promising good governance and development. The Prime Minister has urged voters to give the BJP a chance to revive the state's "lost glory".

However, the TMC has pushed back against these accusations, with party leaders claiming that they are the only ones who take action against corruption within their ranks. They accuse the BJP of playing politics over tragedy and exploiting national security concerns for electoral gains. Mamata Banerjee has vowed to remove Modi from politics, accusing him of dictatorial tendencies.

As the political battle intensifies, the focus remains on whether Modi's accusations of corruption will resonate with the voters of West Bengal and whether the BJP can effectively challenge the TMC's dominance in the state.