Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday declared that West Bengal has “broken free from its shackles” and embarked on a transformative development journey, emphasizing that a single electoral verdict has brought visible change across the state.
New Freshness in Bengal's Air
Addressing the ‘Paschimbanga Divas’ celebration after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for multiple projects in Tarakeswar, Hooghly district, Modi remarked, “Today, after the elections and the swearing-in, I have the good fortune for the first time to come among you. There is now a new freshness in the air of Bengal. It feels as if Bengal has now broken free from its shackles, and the return of Bengal’s glory has begun.”
Democratic Power of One Vote
Referring to the BJP’s victory in the assembly elections, the Prime Minister highlighted the transformation underway in the state as a testament to the democratic process. “There is a glow on the faces of Bengal’s people, and a sentiment of joy and trust in villages. It is clearly visible in Bengal how your one vote can bring about a change,” he said.
Border Fencing and Anti-Corruption Drive
Modi also drew attention to the state government’s accelerated efforts to fence the India-Bangladesh border, alleging that the previous administration had obstructed the process. “You must have seen how the previous government had halted the transfer of land for border fencing. That process has started under the present regime,” the PM stated. He further added that action is being taken against corruption and those accused of siphoning off public funds.
Tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee
Paying homage to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Modi credited him for ensuring that a part of Bengal remained with India during Partition. “When efforts were being made to make the whole of Bengal a part of Pakistan, Congress had bowed before conspiratorial forces. It was then that Syama Prasad Mookerjee raised his voice against it. Congress left Bengal as an orphan during Partition, and indulged in appeasement politics after Independence,” the Prime Minister asserted.
Significance of Paschimbanga Divas
Modi underlined the historical importance of June 20, urging that the younger generation be made aware of the circumstances leading to the state’s creation. “We need to repeatedly highlight the importance of ‘Paschimbanga Divas’. It is important for the younger generation to know what was happening during that period,” he said.
Development Projects Launched
Earlier, the PM inaugurated, dedicated, and laid foundation stones for various projects spanning railways, agriculture, rural development, fisheries, and animal husbandry. “Today’s programme and the inauguration of these projects are a testament that our Bengal has begun work on building its new future. The BJP government has started working at a super-fast pace for Bengal’s development,” he concluded.
