Assam Chief Minister Advocates for Border Fencing in West Bengal
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday emphasized the critical need to fence West Bengal's border with Bangladesh. He alleged that "infiltrators" from the neighboring country are entering the state under the administration of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Campaigning in Poll-Bound West Bengal
Campaigning in West Bengal, which is preparing for elections, Sarma expressed strong confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party's electoral prospects. He stated that the BJP would secure significant victories in both Assam and West Bengal.
"Our primary concern is why Bangladeshis should be permitted to enter our nation. Mamata Banerjee obstructs our efforts to prevent their entry. It is imperative to fence the border, particularly in West Bengal," Sarma told reporters following a public rally.
He projected that the BJP would win 100 seats in Assam and 200 seats in West Bengal, showcasing his optimism for the party's performance in the upcoming polls.
Criticism Over Cow Smuggling and Meat Ban Fears
Sarma also criticized Banerjee regarding alleged cow smuggling activities in West Bengal. He asserted that the BJP would effectively curb such practices if elected to power in the state.
Addressing concerns about meat bans, Sarma clarified that meat has never been prohibited in BJP-ruled states. "Daily animal sacrifices occur at the Maa Kamakhya temple in Guwahati, yet meat remains legal in Assam. Mamata ji fears that BJP governance would lead to meat bans. However, BJP-led states like Assam and Bihar have not imposed such restrictions. Her apprehension stems from the potential halt of cow smuggling under BJP rule," he explained.
Election Schedule and Political Context
Polling in West Bengal is scheduled in two phases: April 23 and April 29. The first phase will cover 152 of the 294 assembly constituencies, with the remaining seats voting in the second phase.
Vote counting for both Assam and West Bengal, along with Kerala, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu, is set for May 4.
The BJP has governed Assam since 2016 and aims for a third consecutive term. In West Bengal, the party serves as the main opposition, challenging the All India Trinamool Congress, which has been in power since 2011 and seeks a fourth term.
