Is PM Modi Planning a Visit to Bengal This Month?

Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's expected visit to Bengal this month is stirring excitement. With plans for vital political and administrative events, he may address a rally in Nandigram, a key area for the BJP. June 20's significance as Bangla Day adds to the anticipation, amidst ongoing controversies with the state government.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit is anticipated to boost BJP's presence in Bengal.
- The rally in Nandigram could be pivotal for upcoming elections.
- June 20 is a significant date in West Bengal's history.
- Controversies regarding Bangla Day continue to create political tension.
- Voter sentiment may shift with Modi's engagement in the state.
Kolkata, June 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to arrive in Bengal this month to participate in two significant events, one focusing on administration and the other on politics.
A member from the BJP's state committee stated, "On May 29, the Prime Minister delivered a speech at a political rally in Alipurduar in North Bengal, but this time he is expected to speak at a similar event in South Bengal."
The state BJP leadership is particularly eager for the Prime Minister to address the political rally at Nandigram in East Midnapore district, where the leader is the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari.
"This political rally might align with an official event inaugurating the Kolkata Metro Green Line. The state unit has submitted a proposal to the Prime Minister's Office outlining a potential schedule for the Prime Minister's visit. Once confirmation is received from the Prime Minister's office, updated details will follow," the committee member mentioned.
He also noted that the BJP state unit is enthusiastic about hosting both events on June 20, given the day's significance for West Bengal.
June 20 is historically recognized as Bangla Day (Foundation Day of West Bengal) because on this day in 1947, the decision to create the state was finalized by a vote in the Bengal Provincial Legislative Assembly.
However, there are disputes surrounding this date, as the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led government has already declared 'Poila Baishakh', the first day of the Bengali calendar, as 'Bangla Day' or the 'Foundation Day' of West Bengal.
CM Banerjee argues that June 20 is inappropriate as the 'Foundation Day' due to its links with the partition of India and the ensuing trauma.
During the May 29 rally in Alipurduar, Prime Minister Modi highlighted five critical issues that West Bengal faces under the current Trinamool Congress government.
Just three days later, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while speaking at a political event at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, claimed that Mamata Banerjee was "distressed" by the success of Operation Sindoor, where Indian Armed Forces dismantled several terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.