In a powerful pitch for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a massive gathering in Malda on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Citing the BJP’s recent historic victories in Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, he asserted that India’s “Gen Z” has firmly placed its trust in the BJP’s development-led governance.
The visit was marked by the launch of major infrastructure projects and a direct political challenge to the ruling TMC government.
A Historic Shift: From Mumbai to Kerala
The Prime Minister used recent civic election results to illustrate the BJP’s expanding footprint in regions once considered unreachable for the party:
- The BMC Milestone: PM Modi highlighted the BJP’s record-breaking performance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections (held January 15, 2026). The BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats, ending nearly three decades of Thackeray family dominance.
- Kerala Breakthrough: He also celebrated the election of V.V. Rajesh as the first-ever BJP Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram (sworn in December 26, 2025). This victory ended 45 years of Left rule in the Kerala capital.
“People of India, especially Gen Z, have reposed faith in BJP’s development model… Even in places where winning was once considered impossible, the party is now receiving unprecedented support.” — PM Narendra Modi
Rail Modernization: India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper
During the event, the Prime Minister dedicated projects worth over ₹3,250 crore to the nation, with a focus on transforming Indian Railways:
| Project | Details |
| Vande Bharat Sleeper | Flagged off India’s first-ever sleeper version on the Howrah–Guwahati (Kamakhya) route. |
| Amrit Bharat Trains | Flagged off 7 new Amrit Bharat trains to boost affordable long-distance connectivity. |
| Connectivity | Laid the foundation for the Balurghat–Hili new rail line and cargo terminals at Balagarh. |
The Vande Bharat Sleeper is designed to offer an airline-like experience for overnight travel, reaching speeds of up to 180 km/h.9
Political Outlook: Bengal Assembly Elections 2026
With the state assembly polls looming, the Prime Minister mounted a sharp attack on the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government, coining the slogan: “Paltano darkar, chai BJP sarkar” (Change is needed, we want a BJP government).
- Infiltration & Demographics: He identified illegal infiltration as Bengal’s “biggest challenge,” accusing the TMC of “patronage and syndicate raj” that has altered the state’s demography.
- Good Governance: PM Modi claimed that with BJP governments surrounding Bengal (referring to Bihar and Odisha), it was time for the “river of development” to flow into West Bengal through “Ma Ganga’s blessings.”