PM Modi virtually addresses Bengal rally as fog blocks chopper
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in West Bengal's Nadia district virtually on Saturday, after dense fog prevented his helicopter from landing. He was scheduled to launch a few highway projects during his visit to the region, but had to cancel due to bad weather. "I apologise that bad weather prevented me from reaching the venue in Bengal's Nadia," Modi said while addressing the Taherpur rally over the phone.
Political criticism
PM Modi criticizes TMC, calls for 'double-engine government'
In his virtual address, PM Modi slammed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and accused it of protecting illegal immigrants. He alleged that the TMC's opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls was an attempt to shield these infiltrators. The Prime Minister urged voters to support a "double-engine government" in West Bengal for development.
Governance allegations
PM Modi highlights corruption, nepotism in West Bengal
PM Modi also accused the TMC of misgovernance and said it has stalled West Bengal's progress. He alleged that corruption, nepotism, and appeasement by the ruling dispensation have prevented developmental works in the state. The Prime Minister described the situation as "maha jungle raj," a term he borrowed from his campaign rhetoric in Bihar.
Cultural reference
PM Modi pays tribute to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
In his address, PM Modi also paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the author of India's national song Vande Mataram. He called him "Rishi Bankim Babu" and celebrated 150 years of the national song. The Prime Minister's virtual rally was a key event in West Bengal. Separately, he is scheduled for a two-day visit to Assam, where he will inaugurate Guwahati's new airport terminal, among other programs.