Launching his campaign for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly Election, Abhishek Banerjee, All-India General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), on Wednesday held a series of meetings with party workers across Daspur, Keshiary, and Nandigram, outlining the party’s electoral strategy and intensifying the political battle.
Addressing a gathering in Nandigram, Banerjee noted that what was intended to be a workers’ meeting had turned into a large public rally. He said the turnout reflected continued public trust in the TMC.
Calling for support to party candidate Pabitra Kar, Banerjee urged voters to ensure his victory, stating it would help “restore the dignity” and identity of Nandigram.
Without naming him directly, Banerjee launched a strong attack on BJP candidate in Nandigram Suvendu Adhikari, accusing the Leader of Opposition of following the path of “betrayal politics” and prioritising personal interests over the region’s legacy.
He alleged that those claiming to represent the people had failed to deliver meaningful development, raising questions about their contributions to the local community.
Banerjee issued a stern message to party workers, warning that all activities within the organisation were under close watch. He said any involvement in divisive politics or collusion with opposition forces would not be tolerated.
At the same time, he reassured workers that the party leadership would stand by them against any form of pressure or intimidation, including alleged threats involving investigative agencies.
Highlighting the ongoing ‘Sebashray’ outreach programme, Banerjee said the initiative had witnessed strong public participation, with nearly 50,000 people visiting camps over the past 15 days.
He announced that an annual ‘Sebashray’ camp would be organised in Nandigram, with one in each Gram Panchayat and two large facilities across the blocks. He added that if Kar is elected, the state government would also implement the ‘Duare Swasthya’ healthcare initiative in the region.
Emphasising the significance of Nandigram, Banerjee described the election as more than a political contest, calling it a fight to uphold the region’s dignity. He directed party workers to strengthen organisational structures in booths where past election results had been weak.
Banerjee also accused the BJP of attempting to influence TMC’s booth-level agents through monetary inducements. He alleged that calls were being made from Delhi offering money to party workers.
In a controversial remark, he advised workers to negotiate higher amounts if approached but ultimately remain loyal to the party, asserting that grassroots workers form the backbone of TMC’s strength.
Earlier in the day, during meetings in Daspur and Keshiary, Banerjee called for a decisive mandate on May 4, the day of counting, aiming for a result that would leave the BJP “shocked.”
With a focus on organisational strength, development initiatives, and public outreach, Banerjee’s campaign signals an aggressive push by the TMC as the state heads toward a high-stakes electoral contest.
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