Mamata Calls PM Modi's Address "Cowardly, Fork-Tongued" as Bengal Poll Battle Intensifies

A sharp political exchange between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has intensified the campaign atmosphere ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections. The war of words comes as both leaders ramp up their outreach efforts, targeting each other’s policies and governance record in a bid to sway voters.

Banerjee launched a strong attack on the Prime Minister following his recent address to the nation, describing it as “cowardly, hypocritical and fork-tongued.” She accused him of misleading citizens and avoiding accountability by not addressing concerns directly in Parliament. The Trinamool Congress leader also challenged Modi to face scrutiny in a formal legislative setting rather than making statements outside it.

The Chief Minister further defended her party’s stance on the Women’s Reservation Bill, asserting that her opposition was not to the proposal itself but to its linkage with the delimitation exercise. She argued that the move could alter the balance of representation among states and alleged that it was being used as a political tool. Banerjee also cited her party’s record on women’s representation, claiming that it has consistently supported greater participation of women in politics.

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Meanwhile, PM Modi continued his offensive against the ruling All India Trinamool Congress during a rally in Purulia, accusing the state government of fostering a “maha jungle raj.” He alleged widespread corruption, particularly in recruitment processes, and claimed that development in key sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education had been severely affected under the party’s rule.

The Prime Minister also raised concerns about unemployment in the state, stating that it had reached “dangerous levels” during the Trinamool Congress’s 15-year tenure. He accused party leaders of engaging in corrupt practices, including the alleged cash-for-jobs scam in teacher recruitment, and said such issues were discouraging industrial growth and investment in West Bengal.

Looking ahead to the elections, PM Modi expressed confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party would secure a decisive victory and form the next government in the state. The West Bengal assembly polls are scheduled to be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting set for May 4, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral contest.

Also Read: Kharge Criticises PM Modi's Speech Following Defeat of Women’s Reservation-Linked Bill