Union Home Minister Amit Shah concluded his election campaign in West Bengal on Monday, urging people to vote without fear of the 'goons' of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He assured that central armed police forces (CAPFs) have been deployed extensively and will remain in the state for 60 days after the elections.
Reassurance to voters
Addressing a roadshow in Kolkata's Behala, Shah said, 'Don't worry about Didi's goons. The Election Commission has deployed CAPFs in every nook and cranny. Today, as I leave, I am saying a BJP government will come to office after elections. Still, CAPFs will stay here for the next 60 days.' This message was aimed at reassuring party supporters in a state that has witnessed post-poll violence in the past.
Strong warning to TMC
In Chandannagar, Shah sharpened his rhetoric, stating, 'There are apprehensions that there will be violence. Don't worry... I am asking Didi's goons not to step out of their homes. Otherwise, we will straighten them up after May 4.' The BJP has repeatedly accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of orchestrating violent attacks on its workers after previous elections.
Massive CAPF deployment
The deployment of nearly 2,400 CAPF companies, unprecedented in the state's electoral history, is seen as a determined effort to prevent any 'strong-arm tactics' by the TMC. The TMC, however, has alleged that the deployment is aimed at intimidating its supporters to benefit the BJP.
