CM Shubhendu Makes Strong Pitch Ahead of Falta By-Poll Battle

Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari made strong political remarks ahead of the Falta Assembly by-election, sharply targeting the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and its candidate Jahangir Khan. Speaking at a large public rally held in support of BJP candidate Debangshu Ponda, he launched a direct attack on the opposition, focusing on issues such as law and order, alleged electoral violence, and corruption in the region. During his speech, Adhikari referred to Jahangir Khan in highly critical terms, calling him a “so-called Pushpa” and claiming that he was now his “responsibility.” The remark quickly became a talking point of the rally, with BJP supporters responding with loud slogans. He also alleged that Khan was not an ordinary political figure but had a criminal background, linking him to post-election violence that occurred after 2019. According to Adhikari, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had previously identified several individuals involved in serious criminal activities, and he claimed Khan’s name appeared in such records. The Chief Minister further argued that the people of Falta had been deprived of free and fair voting for the past decade. He described the upcoming re-polling not merely as a routine electoral contest but as a struggle to restore constitutional rights and democratic freedoms in the region. He urged voters to ensure a decisive victory for the BJP candidate, even suggesting a margin of up to one lakh votes. In addition to his criticism of the opposition, Adhikari accused TMC leadership of enabling a climate of fear and political violence. He indirectly targeted senior TMC figures, including party leadership connected to Mamata Banerjee and her family, alleging that influential networks had protected certain individuals. Beyond the electoral rhetoric, he also outlined broader promises, including job opportunities for citizens aged 18 to 45 and support for victims of political violence. He reiterated that his government’s focus would be on restoring law and order and ensuring justice for affected communities. Adhikari also announced plans for a roadshow in Falta on May 19, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., where he said he would meet people impacted by political violence. At the conclusion of his address, he promised a special development package for the Falta region, stating that governance should focus on justice, accountability, and development rather than only holding power. Overall, the rally highlighted intensified political tensions ahead of the Falta by-election, with sharp exchanges between the BJP and TMC, and strong campaign messaging centered on governance, law and order, and voter rights.