Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised the Election Commission of India (ECI) for conducting largely peaceful polls in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections across 152 constituencies. Addressing a rally in Krishnanagar, Nadia district, he congratulated voters for participating in what he called the “festival of democracy,” noting reduced violence compared to previous elections. Modi expressed confidence that voter enthusiasm and high turnout would break records this time, crediting state government employees for ensuring a smooth polling process.
The Prime Minister also took indirect jibes at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, referencing her remarks about his recent stop for ‘jhalmuri’ during campaigning. Modi said the BJP would celebrate victory on May 4 with sweets and jhalmuri, while asserting that the election battle was between the Trinamool Congress and the common people. He claimed voters from all walks of life – doctors, lawyers, teachers, and police – were casting ballots for change, accusing TMC of corruption, extortion, and misrule. Modi added that in several districts, the ruling party may struggle to secure seats.