Amit Shah kicks off 'Operation Bengal', poll strategy, state chief pick on cards
With Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to arrive in Kolkata for a two-day visit on Saturday, possibly to formulate the BJP's 2026 Assembly strategy, a fierce war of words has erupted between the saffron party and the ruling Trinamool Congress.Shah, whose visit comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to Bengal and attacked the Mamata Banerjee-led government over the Murshidabad riots and alleged scams, has a busy itinerary on Sunday.advertisementHis schedule includes inaugurating a new facility at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL), followed by a major political rally at Netaji Indoor Stadium, where he will address BJP leaders and supporters.
Party insiders indicated that Shah would outline a strategic plan to strengthen the BJP's position for the upcoming 2026 elections. There is also speculation that the visit may involve discussions on selecting a new state BJP president.The current president, Dr Sukanta Majumder, is serving an extended term. He was made an Union Minister after the Modi government returned to power in 2024 for the third consecutive time.However, no official statement has been released by the BJP on this matter. Additionally, Shah will visit Swami Vivekananda's residence on Simla Street to pay his respects before departing for Delhi on Sunday evening.BJP VS TRINAMOOL WAR OF WORDSadvertisementThe visit has led to a fierce sparring between the BJP and TMC.The TMC has accused the BJP of using 'Operation Sindoor', during which the armed forces destroyed nine terror camps in Pakistan and hit military bases, for political gain.In an interview with India Today, TMC minister Sashi Panja dismissed BJP leaders as "seasonal visitors" attempting to sway Bengal's voters without genuine commitment. She argued that the BJP's alleged insensitivity towards women's issues would prevent them from gaining traction in the state.In a sharp rebuttal, Dr Sukanta Majumder defended the party's agenda, stating that Amit Shah's visit would provide a clear blueprint for the 2026 elections. He described the efforts as 'Operation Bengal', a mission to "uphold the honour of Bengal's women".Majumder said Shah's meetings with mandal presidents and senior leaders would galvanise the party's grassroots efforts. The development underscores the high stakes for the parties in the 2026 elections.Must Watch
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