Defence Minister Rajnath Singh sharply criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 2, 2026, during a BJP Parivartan Yatra rally in Howrah, accusing her of favoring criminals over citizens. He questioned her “Mamata” (affection), claiming it extends only to wrongdoers, infiltrators, and specific religious groups. Singh vowed a BJP government would jail criminals within a month and restore security.
Rally Key Charges
Singh alleged criminals enjoy impunity under TMC rule, fostering a belief that “Mamata Didi’s fondness will protect them no matter what.” He highlighted West Bengal’s high NCRB-reported atrocities against women, questioning why oppressors go unpunished after 15 years of TMC governance. Poverty persists, women feel unsafe, and the state lags in development, he claimed, contrasting it with BJP-ruled states’ progress.
Central Agencies Criticism
He condemned attacks on ED and CBI teams, asking why Banerjee fears probes if innocent and fails to protect investigators, calling it an assault on India’s Constitution and federal structure. Singh positioned BJP as the force for economic growth, women’s security, and social harmony via a “double-engine” government.
BJP Promises and Context
A BJP regime needs 5-10 years to eliminate joblessness but promises swift action against corruption, syndicates, and appeasement politics. The rally precedes 2026 assembly polls, with leaders like Shivraj Singh Chouhan pledging “Lakhpati Didi” schemes and pucca houses for the poor. Singh urged change to end atrocities and build a peaceful Bengal.
