On April 10, 2026, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election manifesto for West Bengal, outlining 15 key promises aimed at reviving the state's cultural identity, tackling political violence, and offering welfare schemes for various sections of society. Shah, speaking at an event in Kolkata, positioned the manifesto as a "path to bring every section of Bengal out of despair," while highlighting the BJP's commitment to improving the state's governance. The manifesto was also deeply connected to Bengal's cultural legacy, with Shah invoking the famous Bengali rendition of Rabindranath Tagore's poem "Where the Mind is Without Fear" — "Chitto Jekhane Bhoy Shunyo" — which symbolizes the BJP's vision for a fearless and proud Bengal.
Among the key promises is a monthly financial assistance of Rs 3,000 for women, a measure aimed at providing direct financial relief to mothers across Bengal. The party also vowed to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) within six months of taking power, asserting that a single set of laws would apply to all citizens in the state. In addition, Shah reiterated a "zero tolerance" policy towards illegal infiltration and cow smuggling, promising to strengthen Bengal's borders and crack down on such activities.
Shah also addressed the concerns of government employees, promising the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission within 45 days of coming to power. Additionally, he announced that dearness allowance (DA) would be guaranteed for all government employees and pensioners. The manifesto also pledged to set up a commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate instances of political violence, irrespective of the party targeted. Shah emphasized that this commission would ensure that every case of violence is thoroughly investigated and brought to its logical conclusion.
The BJP also promised to address corruption, restore law and order, and implement several welfare schemes, including Ayushman Bharat, aimed at improving healthcare access. With the state set for elections in two phases on April 23 and 29, the manifesto is a bold attempt by the BJP to position itself as a force for change in West Bengal, offering a vision of development, cultural pride, and fearless governance.
