End of an Era? Amit Shah Predicts BJP Will Uproot TMC in 2026 Bengal Elections
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s bold assertion that Mamata Banerjee’s tenure as Chief Minister of West Bengal will end in 2026 has sparked fresh political debates across the state. Speaking at a rally in Murshidabad, Shah declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is on course to form the next government, bringing an end to over a decade of Trinamool Congress (TMC) rule.
This statement signals the BJP’s renewed focus on Bengal, a state it considers crucial in its goal of establishing a nationwide political dominance. Shah’s message was clear and combative—he positioned the BJP as the party of progress and accused Mamata’s government of hindering development through corruption and divisive politics.
The Heart of Shah’s Message: A State Held Back
Amit Shah’s speech painted a grim picture of West Bengal under TMC rule. According to him, the state, once known for its intellectual vibrance and industrial prominence, has now become a hub for political violence, illegal infiltration, and financial irregularities.
He blamed the TMC government for stalling centrally funded welfare programs and claimed that Bengal’s law-and-order situation has deteriorated dramatically. “The TMC has turned Bengal into a lawless state where corruption is institutionalized and criminals are shielded for votes,” Shah thundered.
Linking 2024 to 2026: A Strategic Calculation
Shah urged the people of Bengal to give the BJP a strong mandate in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, setting a target of 35 seats out of 42. He claimed that such a result would dismantle Mamata’s administration and pave the way for Assembly change in 2026.
The logic is simple: success in national elections builds psychological momentum and demonstrates waning public faith in the state’s current leadership. It also offers BJP a chance to build a stronger organizational presence, which is vital for the next phase of their electoral strategy.
Border Infiltration and National Security: Key Talking Points
Border security featured prominently in Shah’s speech, especially given Murshidabad’s proximity to the Bangladesh border. Shah accused Mamata Banerjee’s government of turning a blind eye to illegal immigration for political benefit.
He promised that a BJP-led administration would enforce strict border controls and prioritize national security, much like it has done in Assam. These claims are designed to appeal to nationalist sentiments and consolidate support in border districts, where demographic changes have become politically sensitive.
Corruption as a Central Theme
Over the past few years, several TMC leaders have come under investigation for alleged involvement in scams—ranging from teacher recruitment fraud to misappropriation of rural development funds. Shah capitalized on this narrative, branding the TMC as a party “drenched in corruption.”
“From recruitment to ration, no scheme is untouched by scam under TMC rule. Bengal deserves better,” Shah said, promising transparent governance under BJP.
