BJP steps up Bengal poll strategy as Modi, Shah to lead campaign push
The Statesman | 24 March 2026
With the assembly election drawing closer, the BJP is intensifying its campaign strategy where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and union Home Minister Amit Shah will play central roles in the party’s outreach.
However, sources in the party have also indicated that BJP national president Nitin Nabin, instead of relying on the observers will directly see the organisation of the party.
Unlike the 2021 elections, which were disrupted midway due to the COVID-19 surge, the party is hopeful of executing a full-fledged campaign plan featuring multiple rallies and roadshows by top central leaders this time.
Sources in the party indicate that Modi and Shah are expected to address a series of public meetings and roadshows across the state.
During the last Assembly polls, both leaders had curtailed their campaign after the third phase due to rising infections.
However, with no such constraints this time and a shorter polling schedule, the BJP leaders are optimistic that their campaign blueprint will be implemented in full.
Sources in the party indicate that plans are underway for a major roadshow in Kolkata between April 24 and 27, aligning with the gap between the first and second phases of polling.
Apart from Kolkata, cities such as Siliguri, Durgapur, and Asansol are also being considered for roadshows, subject to security clearance by the Special Protection Group (SPG).
BJP sources suggest that Modi could address around ten rallies across the state in the coming weeks, with each organisational zone likely to host at least one major event as the party gears up for an aggressive electoral push.
Before the high-voltage campaign begins, BJP’s national president Nitin Nabin is likely to visit West Bengal between March 24 and 26.
His visit is expected to prioritise organisational meetings over public rallies, although he may address a gathering if time permits.
Nabin is keen to directly assess the party’s preparedness on the ground rather than relying solely on reports from central observers.
During his visit, Nabin is expected to hold meetings with leaders from all five key organisational zones—North Bengal, Rarh Bengal, Nabadwip, Kolkata, and the Howrah–Hooghly–Medinipur belt.
Traditionally, such interactions have been handled by central observers like Sunil Bansal or Bhupender Yadav.
However, Nabin appears determined to take a more hands-on approach, engaging directly with grassroots leadership to fine-tune the party’s strategy.
Following Nabin’s visit, Modi’s campaign tour is expected to commence, possibly after Ram Navami or beyond March 30, though the final schedule is yet to be confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Office.