Bengal Polls: Religion vs Development Narrative Emerges
TMC pivots to religious symbolism, BJP shifts focus to governance and ‘Parivartan’
- Mamata Banerjee’s TMC adopts religious messaging
- Narendra Modi-led BJP stresses development and change
- ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogan politics takes a new turn
- Opposition terms it “competitive Hindutva”
GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 29th March: The political landscape ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections is witnessing a strategic shift, with the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party recalibrating their narratives in a contest increasingly blending religion and development.
In a notable change from earlier positions, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s party has begun incorporating religious symbolism into its outreach. Leaders from the TMC were seen raising slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” during Ram Navami celebrations, a departure from its earlier criticism of the slogan’s political use.
The move comes amid efforts by the ruling party to counter the BJP’s traditional Hindutva appeal. The shift has sparked criticism from Left parties, which have described the evolving scenario as “competitive Hindutva.”
Observers also point to recent temple projects across the state, including those in Digha and Siliguri, as part of the broader political messaging aimed at resonating with religious sentiments.
On the other hand, the BJP appears to be broadening its strategy beyond religious rhetoric. While continuing to invoke cultural symbols such as “Jai Maa Kali” and “Jai Maa Durga,” senior leaders including Amit Shah are placing increasing emphasis on governance, development and administrative reforms.
The party has revived the slogan “Parivartan” — once used by Banerjee to end Left rule in 2011 — as the central theme of its campaign. Large-scale rallies and yatras are being organised across the state to project the BJP as an alternative capable of delivering change.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders have also sharpened their attacks on the state government, focusing on issues such as governance and law and order, often without directly naming Banerjee.
Meanwhile, Banerjee has countered by alleging discrimination against West Bengal by the Centre, using the metaphor of the state being treated as a “neglected entity” in comparison to others.
With both sides adjusting their strategies — TMC leaning into religious symbolism and BJP foregrounding development — the electoral battle in West Bengal is shaping into a complex and evolving contest that could redefine political messaging in the state.
