Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed the high voter turnout in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, while launching a sharp attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party (SP), labeling them as 'anti-women' for opposing the delimitation-linked Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha.
Modi's Attack on Opposition
Addressing a rally in West Bengal, Modi continued his criticism of opposition parties that voted against the Women's Reservation Bill, which is tied to the delimitation exercise. He singled out the Samajwadi Party for particular criticism, accusing it of standing against women's empowerment.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the high voter turnout in Bengal reflects the people's trust in the developmental agenda of his government. He urged voters to reject parties that, according to him, have consistently blocked pro-women legislation.
Women's Reservation Bill Controversy
The Women's Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, has been a contentious issue. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha but faced opposition from several parties over its linkage to the delimitation process. Delimitation would redraw constituency boundaries based on the latest census, which some parties fear could disadvantage certain regions or communities.
Modi accused the Congress and SP of hypocrisy, stating that while they claim to support women's rights, their actions in Parliament prove otherwise. He called on the electorate to teach these parties a lesson in the ongoing assembly elections.
High Voter Turnout in Bengal
The Election Commission reported a significant increase in voter turnout in the first two phases of the West Bengal Assembly elections compared to previous years. Modi credited this to the enthusiasm of the people, particularly women, who turned out in large numbers to cast their votes.
He reiterated his commitment to women-led development and promised to continue working for the empowerment of women across the country. The Prime Minister's remarks come amid a heated campaign in West Bengal, where the ruling Trinamool Congress is seeking a fourth consecutive term.
