Poila Boishakh: Mamata extends wishes, cautions voters against ‘malevolent forces’
Highlighting Bengal’s cultural and social fabric, she said the state has long been a cradle of art, culture, and communal harmony
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday extended her warm greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of ‘Poila Boishakh’, while also launching a sharp political attack on her opponents and urging voters to defend democratic values in the upcoming Assembly elections.
In a video message in Bengali, marking the Bengali New Year, Banerjee said, “From the depth of my heart, I extend my warmest greetings to the people of all corners of the state. May this fresh dawn usher in a new era and make every life free from blemish. In this call of the new, may every soul brim with sanctity.”
Highlighting Bengal’s cultural and social fabric, she said the state has long been a cradle of art, culture, and communal harmony. However, she alleged that “malevolent forces” are attempting to disrupt this legacy and “tarnish” Bengal’s identity.
Without naming specific parties, the Chief Minister accused “Delhi’s zamindars” of trying to undermine people’s voting rights, asserting that such forces must be given a “democratic answer.”
On the occasion, Banerjee called for unity among people, urging them to rise above divisions. “Let us take a vow to break down all walls of narrow-mindedness and stand united. May no divisive or authoritarian force ever weaken our bonds of peace, harmony, and goodwill,” she said.
She also used the opportunity to appeal to voters ahead of the elections, asking them to support the All India Trinamool Congress and vote for its “jora phul” symbol to ensure a decisive victory for the party’s candidates.
“May everyone stay well and healthy. In the upcoming assembly elections, to uphold your democratic rights—vote for the jora phul symbol and ensure victory for all nominated candidates of the Trinamool Congress with overwhelming votes,” the TMC chief said.
The crucial Bengal elections are scheduled to be held in two phases—April 23 and April 29. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the TMC are making every effort to woo the voters.
