NEW DELHI — Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain on Friday made strong political remarks regarding the ongoing electoral atmosphere in West Bengal, claiming a growing wave of support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asserting that the state is witnessing a shift away from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Speaking in Delhi, Hussain alleged that Mamata Banerjee becomes uneasy whenever Prime Minister Modi visits West Bengal, suggesting that his presence energises BJP supporters and reflects increasing public enthusiasm for his leadership.
He stated that the people of West Bengal have strong affection for Prime Minister Modi, and claimed that this sentiment is becoming more visible during election campaigning. According to him, the political narrative in the state is undergoing a transformation, with voters showing a growing inclination towards the BJP.
Hussain used a symbolic comparison to describe this shift, saying that where political slogans once centred around Mamata Banerjee, often referred to as “Didi,” there is now a noticeable change towards chants supporting Prime Minister Modi. “Where it used to be ‘Didi-Didi’ before, now it is ‘Modi-Modi’,” he remarked, indicating what he described as a change in public mood.
He further asserted that Prime Minister Modi’s visits to West Bengal are being met with large public gatherings and enthusiastic responses, which, according to him, reflect the desire for political change in the state. Hussain suggested that these developments point towards a growing acceptance of the BJP’s leadership and policies among voters.
The BJP leader also implied that Mamata Banerjee’s political position may be weakening, stating that as Modi’s presence grows stronger in the state, her influence could decline. He framed the situation as a direct political contest between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
Hussain’s remarks come amid heightened political activity in West Bengal, where elections are often marked by intense campaigning and strong rhetoric from all major parties. The state has historically been a key battleground, with regional and national parties competing for dominance.
Political observers note that statements like these are part of broader campaign strategies aimed at shaping voter perception and building momentum. Leaders frequently highlight crowd responses and public engagement as indicators of electoral trends, although the actual outcome depends on multiple factors, including voter turnout and local issues.
The BJP has been actively working to expand its presence in West Bengal, positioning itself as a major challenger to Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. At the same time, the TMC has maintained its strong organisational base and continues to emphasise its governance record.
Hussain’s comments also reflect the BJP’s effort to project Prime Minister Modi as a central figure in its campaign, leveraging his national popularity to appeal to voters at the state level.
Meanwhile, leaders from the TMC have, in the past, rejected similar claims, asserting that their party continues to enjoy strong grassroots support and remains confident of electoral success.
The political discourse in West Bengal has remained highly competitive, with both sides making assertive claims about public sentiment and electoral prospects. Analysts suggest that such narratives are likely to intensify as the election process progresses.
Hussain concluded by reiterating his belief that the people of West Bengal are ready for change and that the BJP is well-positioned to benefit from this sentiment.
The remarks highlight the sharp political contest in West Bengal, with the BJP projecting a rising wave of support for Prime Minister Modi while challenging the continued dominance of Mamata Banerjee’s leadership in the state.
