Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday made a bold political prediction while unveiling a grand sporting vision for Gujarat's capital. Addressing a public event in Ahmedabad, Shah declared that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is poised for significant victories in the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, signaling a continued rejection of the Congress and its allies by the Indian electorate.
Political Forecast and Infrastructure Launch
The senior BJP leader was speaking at an event organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple projects. These included three new sports complexes with a combined investment of Rs 1,500 crore. Shah used the platform to send a direct message to the ruling parties in two key eastern and southern states.
"From this stage today, I want to tell Mamataben (Mamata Banerjee) and Stalinji to be prepared. After Bihar, it's NDA's turn in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Let the results come. They (TMC and DMK) will be wiped out in Bengal and Tamil Nadu," Shah asserted. He linked the BJP's confidence to its winning momentum since the 2024 general elections.
Shah also countered opposition leader Rahul Gandhi's recent allegations regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and voter lists. He stated that the people's verdict, not the machines, was responsible for the Congress's decline. "Rahul Gandhi keeps faulting the EVMs and the voter list, when the fact is that the people of the country are not accepting the Congress and its alliance partners," he said, adding that the opposition lacks both leadership and coherent policy.
Ahmedabad's Journey to the 2036 Olympics
Shifting focus to development, Amit Shah announced an ambitious series of international sporting events for Ahmedabad. He revealed that the city is scheduled to host thirteen international sporting events in the coming years, culminating in the ultimate prize.
"And get ready, because the 2036 Olympics will also be held in Ahmedabad," Shah proclaimed, calling upon the city's residents to prepare for the global spectacle. This follows the city's confirmed hosting of the 2029 World Police and Fire Games and the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
The Minister justified Ahmedabad's selection by praising its existing and planned sports infrastructure, coaching facilities, and accommodation. He assured that the stadiums, coaching centres, and hostels built for these mega-events would have lasting utility and not fall into disuse.
Cultural and Spiritual Tributes
During his visit, Shah also participated in other significant events. He mentioned the upcoming construction of a temple dedicated to Sita Maiya in Sitamarhi, Bihar, following the completion of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. "The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is complete," he stated, referencing the hoisting of the saffron flag.
In Gandhinagar, Shah released the Gujarati translation of a book based on the life of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. He praised her, stating that her life exemplifies that leadership is about serving people, not holding a position.
Later, in Ahmedabad's Shahpur area, Shah addressed a gathering marking the 75th anniversary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj's selection as the spiritual successor in the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. He honored the late spiritual leader for linking religion with selfless service and revitalizing ancient traditions. The event, presided over by the current head Mahant Swami, saw participation from about 50,000 devotees and featured 75 illuminated floats on the Sabarmati River, symbolizing the guru's qualities. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi were also present.
