Modi Promises Faster CAA Rollout in Bengal if BJP Comes to Power

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party’s campaign for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, promising quicker implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act if the party forms the next state government.

Addressing a large rally in Katwa in Purba Bardhaman district, Modi reached out to Matua, Namasudra and other refugee communities, assuring them that their citizenship is guaranteed by the Constitution and not dependent on any political party.

He said the CAA was introduced by the BJP-led central government to provide citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighbouring countries. Modi added that once the BJP forms the government in West Bengal, the process of granting citizenship under the law will be accelerated.

The Prime Minister also raised concerns about illegal immigration, stating that infiltrators would be identified and removed. He warned that those involved in creating fake documents or helping illegal immigrants access government benefits would face strict action. His remarks were seen as a direct criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress, which the BJP has often accused of encouraging such practices.

Framing the election as a choice between what he called “fear under TMC” and “trust under BJP,” Modi accused the state government of misleading refugee communities and failing to protect their interests.

He also outlined several welfare promises. For women, the BJP has proposed a monthly allowance of ₹3000 along with improved safety measures. For unemployed youth, he promised relaxation in age limits for government jobs and filling of vacant posts. State government employees were assured implementation of the 7th Pay Commission.

On the issue of corruption, Modi said a BJP government would release a detailed report on alleged irregularities during the TMC’s time in power. He also highlighted plans to support farmers, including financial benefits that combine central and state schemes.

The Prime Minister added that key welfare programmes like Ayushman Bharat would be implemented immediately if the BJP comes to power in the state.

The rally highlighted the BJP’s strategy of focusing on refugee rights, immigration control, and welfare schemes as it seeks to challenge the dominance of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal.