Birbhum, April 13
Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said voters in West Bengal will respond to violence with ballots, as campaigning intensifies ahead of the state assembly elections. Speaking at a rally in Birbhum district, Shah claimed the election would pave the way for a “double-engine” government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, referring to the party being in power at both state and national levels. The Home Minister accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to create fear among sections of the population, an allegation her party has repeatedly denied. Amit Shah also framed the election as a decisive moment on the issue of illegal infiltration, saying the outcome would influence action both in the state and nationally.
The minister added that the Election Commission of India had deployed central forces to ensure voting takes place freely and fairly.
In a warning to political opponents, he said those engaging in violence would face action after the results are declared.
The governing Trinamool Congress has not yet responded publicly to his latest remarks.
