TMC Targets BJP Over ‘Matrishakti Bhorsa’ Card as Paes Attacks Bengal Government

Former tennis star Leander Paes on Thursday criticised the West Bengal government over rising outward migration, while the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) approached the Election Commission alleging violations of the Model Code of Conduct by BJP leaders. The political exchange unfolded amid heightened activity ahead of elections in the state.

Paes, speaking at a BJP event in Kolkata, raised concerns about youth migration from West Bengal, attributing it to declining opportunities in education, employment, and sports. He argued that many young people are leaving the state in search of better prospects elsewhere, contrasting Bengal’s trajectory with what he described as growth in other parts of the country over the past 15 years.

The event also saw the symbolic launch of a ‘Yuva Shakti’ card by the BJP’s Bengal unit, in the presence of Paes and fellow Olympic medallist Vijender Singh. Paes emphasised the need to improve key sectors, citing the centre's focus on education, employment, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, and called for efforts to reverse migration trends and strengthen the state’s development.

Also Read: Killing of Iranian Activist in Canada Highlights Internal Divisions Within Iranian Diaspora, say Activists

Meanwhile, the TMC lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against BJP leaders, including Smriti Irani and Suvendu Adhikari, over the alleged distribution of ‘Matrishakti Bhorsa’ cards. The party claimed the move violated election norms, adding another layer of contention to the ongoing political discourse in West Bengal.

Also Read: WADA Identifies India as Key Hub in Global Doping Crackdown, Urges Legal Reform