PM Modi targets ‘syndicate raj’ in West Bengal, vows White Paper on corruption and probe into political violence
The Statesman | 12 April 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday sharpened his attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress, promising strict action against what he described as entrenched criminal networks and corruption in West Bengal, as campaigning gathers pace ahead of the Assembly elections.
The state is set to vote on April 23 and 29, with counting scheduled for May 4, making the current phase of campaigning critical for all parties. The BJP has intensified its pitch around law and order, corruption and political violence, positioning itself as a direct challenger to the TMC government.
Speaking at a public rally, PM Modi said, “In place of the ‘Syndicate’ system, a transparent tender process will be established for every undertaking. Individuals nurtured by the TMC are constantly fighting amongst themselves to seize control of sand mining operations. You are all well aware of the machinations behind the blast that occurred in Katwa. Under the BJP government, strict action will be taken to curb all such criminal activities…”
He added that a BJP government would make public details of alleged wrongdoing, saying the proposed White Paper would present a full account of corruption during the TMC’s 15-year rule. “… The BJP will release a White Paper regarding corruption and law and order so that every TMC goon, syndicate, and corrupt MLA or minister can be held fully accountable under the law… Furthermore, an inquiry commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge will be constituted to investigate political violence…”
The Prime Minister alleged that corruption in the state was systemic and involved ministers and local MLAs, reinforcing the BJP’s campaign narrative against the ruling party.
In a broader political swipe, he also spoke about Kerala and linked voter participation to electoral outcomes. “In Keralam, the situation is such that neither the LDF nor the UDF is even claiming victory; they can see their defeat…” He added that strong participation, particularly by women voters, has often translated into electoral gains for the BJP.
Reaching out to women voters in Bengal, the PM announced a financial promise of ₹3,000 per month, seeking to expand the party’s appeal among a key demographic that has traditionally backed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
He also accused the TMC of spreading misinformation about welfare schemes, asserting that a BJP government would not discontinue benefits but ensure delivery without middlemen.
Referring to the turnout at the rally earlier, PM Modi pointed to what he described as growing support for the BJP. “…Behind me, you can see the mood of Bengal. It is just 11-11.30 am right now, and this is my first public meeting of the day. At the helipad itself, there are thousands of people. This is wonderful…”