Will PM Modi Revive Memories of Singur in Today's Rally?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Modi's rally in Singur aims to connect with voters through historical context.
- The exit of the Nano project marked a significant loss for West Bengal.
- The BJP emphasizes restoring investments in the region.
- Sukanta Majumdar's statements reflect the party's ambitions.
- Modi's previous engagements showcase his ongoing commitment to the state.
Kolkata, Jan 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to address a public rally in Singur, located in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. During this event, he is likely to evoke the historical context surrounding the withdrawal of Tata Motors' Nano car project back in 2008.
The departure of the project from Singur was primarily driven by intense protests from the Trinamool Congress, which was then the opposition party, led by the current Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. These protests focused on land acquisition issues for the project.
Historically, after the former chairman of Tata Group, the late Ratan Tata, announced the withdrawal of the Nano project from Singur on October 3, 2008, the project was relocated to Sanand in Gujarat, where Narendra Modi served as the Chief Minister.
In an emotional statement made during the announcement, Ratan Tata remarked, "I vowed to stay in Singur even if threatened with a gun, but Miss Banerjee pulled the trigger." This sentiment is expected to resonate in Modi's upcoming speech.
As the Prime Minister prepares to speak, all eyes will be focused on how he will reflect on these historical events during his rally, which is crucial ahead of the state assembly elections scheduled later this year.
The BJP has initiated an extensive campaign linking the Prime Minister's rally to the Nano project exit, emphasizing its significant impact on the Hooghly district and future investments in the state. Former BJP state president and Union Minister of State Sukanta Majumdar stated, "The exit of the Nano from Singur not only harmed this area but also stifled potential investments across West Bengal. Our goal is to bring Tata Group back to Singur, restoring its status as a prime investment destination."
Before the rally, PM Modi will virtually inaugurate several central government projects in West Bengal, primarily focused on Indian Railways.
On Saturday, the Prime Minister had also addressed a rally in the minority-dominated Malda district. His visit to West Bengal is pivotal from both administrative and political perspectives, especially with the impending assembly elections.
Previously, on December 20, Modi attempted to hold a public meeting in Taherpur, Nadia district, but faced challenges due to poor visibility caused by fog, forcing him to address the gathering via an audio bridge call. He assured that he would return to West Bengal soon.