“‘Mati’ handed to infiltrators”: Narendra Modi targets All India Trinamool Congress in campaign’s final leg; Mamata Banerjee says “BJP dar gaya”

Political heavyweights cut across party lines fanned out across West Bengal on Sunday, holding rallies, roadshows and marches as campaigning for the second phase entered its final stretch ahead of the Monday evening deadline.

Addressing rallies in North 24 Parganas and Hooghly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on women’s safety, claiming strong support among women voters and accusing the ruling All India Trinamool Congress of failing them during its tenure.

Mamata flags EVM concerns

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged irregularities involving electronic voting machines (EVMs), claiming central forces acted at the behest of the Election Commission of India. Speaking at a rally in Bhabanipur, from where she is contesting, Banerjee said she had heard of incidents where power to EVM strongrooms was cut and attempts were made to “capture” them—allegations denied by election authorities.

BJP sharpens attack

Modi intensified his attack on the TMC, alleging that women and the Dalit Matua community suffered during Banerjee’s 15-year rule. Addressing a rally in Thakurnagar, he invoked the party’s slogan “Ma, Mati, Manush,” claiming it no longer reflected ground realities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also campaigned in Nadia district, promising stricter action against illegal infiltration and economic support for farmers, while urging voters to back the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also targeted the TMC in remarks during the campaign.

High-stakes final phase

The second and final phase will see voting in 142 constituencies on April 29, after a record turnout in the first phase. The results are scheduled to be declared on May 4.

Banerjee, seeking a fourth consecutive term, continued her outreach in Bhabanipur, highlighting urban development and welfare initiatives, while dismissing BJP’s prospects of forming the government.

With campaigning set to close Monday evening, all major parties have intensified last-minute efforts in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested electoral battle.