Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday intensified his campaign in West Bengal, unveiling a "10 guarantees" plan focused on women’s welfare while sharply criticizing the ruling Trinamool Congress ahead of the second phase of assembly elections.
Addressing a rally in Krishnanagar, the prime minister said that those responsible for crimes against women would face strict punishment if the Bharatiya Janata Party comes to power in the state.
As part of the proposed measures, Modi promised the establishment of women’s police stations in every block and large-scale recruitment of women into the police force to strengthen safety and law enforcement.
He also announced direct financial assistance schemes, including an annual transfer of Rs 36,000 to women beneficiaries and Rs 50,000 support for girls upon graduation. Pregnant women, he said, would receive Rs 21,000 in financial aid, along with additional funds aimed at improving child nutrition.
The prime minister highlighted welfare initiatives such as the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana to secure the future of girls, and the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana to provide loans of up to Rs 20 lakh for self-employment. He also reiterated support for women entrepreneurs under the “Lakhpati Didi” initiative.
Healthcare coverage under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, offering free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, and housing benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, where homes would be registered in women’s names, were also part of the guarantees.
Beyond welfare, Modi outlined governance reforms, promising accountability in administration and action against corruption. He said pending cases related to crimes against women would be reopened and those involved, regardless of position, would face legal consequences.
The prime minister also addressed issues of migration and security, stating that legal refugees would receive benefits, while illegal infiltrators would not be allowed to stay in the country.
In addition, he pledged to implement the 7th Pay Commission for state government employees, teachers, and allied workers if his party forms the government.
With the second phase of voting approaching, the announcements are seen as a major attempt to appeal to women voters and strengthen electoral prospects in a state where political competition remains intense.
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