Analyzing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches in West Bengal between 2021 and 2025 reveals notable shifts in tone, focus, and messaging strategies. These changes reflect the evolving political landscape, the BJP's strategic recalibration, and Modi's adaptation to local sentiments.
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Increased Emphasis on Bengali Identity and Culture:
- 2021: While Modi always acknowledged Bengal's cultural significance, the emphasis was less pronounced. There was a general focus on "Ashol Poriborton" (real change) and criticizing the incumbent TMC for corruption and lack of development.
- 2025: Modi's recent speeches showcase a deliberate attempt to connect with the Bengali psyche. He begins speeches with "Jai Maa Kali" and "Jai Maa Durga" chants. He accuses the TMC of threatening Bengali culture by bringing in infiltrators and alleges the BJP is the only party that respects and protects Bengali "ashmita" (pride). This shift addresses TMC accusations about the harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states. Modi also highlights that the BJP considered Bangla a classical language, unlike the TMC, Congress, and Left.
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Focus on Development Projects and "Viksit Bharat":
- 2021: Modi's speeches included promises of infrastructure development and ending the "cut culture" of corruption. He focused on a "sabka sath, sabka vikash" model.
- 2025: Modi increasingly links Bengal's development to the larger national goal of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India). He unveils and inaugurates development projects worth thousands of crores in sectors like oil and gas, power, rail, and roads. He stresses that Bengal will play a vital role in achieving a developed India, seeking blessings for the BJP to make it happen.
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Stronger Attacks on TMC and Allegations of Corruption:
- 2021: Modi criticized TMC for corruption and hindering development.
- 2025: Modi's attacks on the TMC have become more direct and detailed. He accuses the TMC government of being "corrupt and non-performing". He alleges that "Trinamool's goon tax" creates obstacles to investment, that the government is partisan, and that it has plunged the education system into crime and corruption. He also refers to specific instances like the school jobs scam and the RG Kar rape case, accusing the TMC of shielding culprits.
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Addressing Infiltration and Citizenship:
- 2021: Modi touched upon the issue of illegal immigration.
- 2025: Modi directly addresses the issue of infiltration, accusing the TMC of aiding it for appeasement. He vows to take legal action against non-citizens according to the Constitution and assures that the BJP will not allow any conspiracy against Bengali identity to succeed. This stance is likely aimed at consolidating Hindu votes while countering claims that Bengali migrants are being targeted in other states.
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Increased Use of Guarantee and Assurance:
- 2021: Modi's speeches focused on promises of change and development.
- 2025: Modi increasingly uses the concept of "Modi's Guarantee" ("Modir Guarantee"). This includes guarantees of a developed Bengal, protection of Bengali identity, and citizenship for refugees. The use of "guarantee" aims to build trust and credibility with the voters.
In conclusion, Modi's speeches in Bengal have evolved to become more attuned to local cultural sensitivities, with a stronger emphasis on development, and more pointed attacks against the TMC. The focus on Bengali identity, coupled with promises of a "developed Bengal" and guarantees on key issues, represent a calculated strategy to sway voters in upcoming elections.