In a spirited roadshow convened in Jadavpur on May 20, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unleashed bold declarations, signaling the imminent downfall of the Leftist stronghold in the region, steadfast since 1952. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd, Sarma emphatically proclaimed that the forthcoming 2024 elections would signify a definitive victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), effectively ending decades of Leftist and Marxist rule.
With a hint of sarcasm, Sarma alluded to the enduring influence of Congress-Left and TMC in Jadavpur, describing the prevailing environment as one that fosters ‘Urban Naxals’. He exuded confidence that the BJP’s ascendancy to power would inaugurate a new era for the region, liberating it from the ideological constraints of yesteryears. Prior to this, Sarma launched a scathing critique of West Bengal’s governance under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during a public rally in Kolkata. Casting doubt on the state’s current trajectory, Sarma juxtaposed its present state with its illustrious historical and cultural heritage.
“What have you done to West Bengal?” questioned Sarma, lamenting the state’s descent from its once-proud status as a bastion of culture and intellect. Fondly reminiscing about iconic landmarks like the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum and the Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir, he expressed apprehension that they no longer embody the essence of Bengal. Drawing attention to the alarming prevalence of “Sandeshkhali” in Google’s search trends, Sarma issued a caution against allowing the region’s notoriety to define West Bengal. “Today, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is not the identity of West Bengal,” he remarked, urging Mamata Banerjee to take decisive measures to safeguard the state’s cultural heritage and revive its former grandeur.
