Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaign trail blazed through West Bengal’s northern reaches on Saturday, culminating in a high-energy roadshow near Bagdogra in Siliguri. After firing up crowds at three rallies, Modi’s convoy drew an ocean of supporters who drowned the streets in ‘Modi-Modi’ slogans and ‘Jai Shri Ram’ cheers.
From his perch on the front seat, Modi waved broadly before poking his head out the window, igniting a frenzy among onlookers. The personal touch sent the enthusiasm into overdrive, with voices rising in unison along the route.
Two-time Darjeeling MP Raju Bista shared a gripping video on X, proclaiming Modi’s global stature and local reverence. ‘He’s our protector in Darjeeling’s hills, terai, and Dooars,’ Bista wrote, highlighting the queues of people eager for a glimpse. The event showcased Modi’s knack for blending accessibility with charisma.
The day kicked off with rallies in Katwa, Jangipur, and Kushmandi, strategic spots in BJP’s bid to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress. West Bengal’s polls unfold in two phases on April 23 and 29, results on May 4, making every outing count.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of families, youth, and elders packed shoulder-to-shoulder, many traveling from afar. Banners proclaimed Modi’s achievements in infrastructure and security, resonating in this diverse belt. Critics may downplay it as optics, but the raw energy suggests a groundswell that could reshape electoral maps.
Modi’s roadshow wasn’t just a parade; it was a statement of intent. As chants faded into the evening, the message was clear: Bengal’s north is buzzing with pro-BJP sentiment, setting the stage for a fiercely contested battle.
