PM Modi Targets TMC in Siliguri Rally, Demands Accountability for Madrasa Funding

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday intensified the BJP’s campaign in North Bengal by addressing a public rally in Siliguri, accusing the Trinamool Congress government of neglecting regional development while allocating substantial funds for madrasas.

Siliguri, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large gathering in Siliguri on Sunday as part of his two-day visit to West Bengal ahead of the state Assembly elections. He asserted that the TMC’s exit from power after the polls was “certain” and criticised the ruling party for alleged discrimination against North Bengal.

Massive Roadshow TurnoutThe Prime Minister recalled his roadshow from Bagdogra to Siliguri on Saturday, which he said extended far beyond the planned short stretch due to overwhelming public participation. He described the response as deeply moving, noting the presence of people, including children, lining the route for over 15 kilometres. “This time, TMC’s departure from Bengal is certain,” Modi declared, crediting the public enthusiasm for what he called an extraordinary show of support.

Attack on Madrasa Funding

In his sharpest remarks, Modi targeted the TMC government over its allocation of around ₹6,000 crore for madrasas. He claimed the ruling party had prioritised its “vote bank” over the development needs of North Bengal, leading to administrative lapses even during recent natural disasters caused by heavy rainfall. 

“The budget of the ruthless TMC government is also an example of discrimination against North Bengal,” he said, adding that the party remained “busy day and night appeasing its own special vote bank.” Modi alleged that while funds flowed to madrasas, the region suffered from neglect in infrastructure and overall progress.

Call for 15-Year Accountability

The Prime Minister warned that after the elections, the TMC would have to account for its 15 years in power. “TMC people, listen carefully. After May 4, every moment of the past fifteen years will be accounted for. They will have to give an account of every penny,” he stated. He appealed directly to voters in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts to support BJP candidates in all 12 assembly seats across the two areas.

Regional Political Context

Darjeeling district, with its five assembly seats currently held by the BJP, features a mix of Gorkha identity politics in the hills and urban-trade concerns in plains like Siliguri. Jalpaiguri remains a contest, with four seats held by TMC and three by BJP. Community dynamics involving Rajbanshi and Scheduled Tribe groups play a key role there.

The rally formed part of Modi’s broader campaign push in the state. On Saturday, he had addressed rallies in Katwa, Jangipur, and Kushmandi, followed by the Siliguri roadshow. Central forces have also stepped up presence, with armoured vehicles reported in parts of the state as polling approaches.

BJP’s Pitch in North Bengal

Modi’s visit highlighted the BJP’s focus on North Bengal, where it aims to consolidate gains. The party projects a “double-engine” government model as the solution to alleged misrule, promising better development and accountability. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed similar sentiments in a separate rally in Bankura on Sunday, stressing the need for a strong government to tackle law-and-order issues.

West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with vote counting on May 4. The contests in North Bengal are seen as crucial for setting the momentum in the 294-member assembly.

What Lies Ahead

As campaigning intensifies, both major parties continue to trade charges. The TMC has previously countered similar criticisms with its own set of claims on governance and welfare. For now, Modi’s Siliguri address has energised BJP workers in the region, with the party hoping the visible public support translates into electoral gains in the upcoming polls.

This latest development in West Bengal politics underscores the high stakes in North Bengal, where development concerns, community aspirations, and governance records dominate the discourse in the run-up to the crucial state elections.