PM Modi announces 10 guarantees for Bengal women ahead of second phase of polling

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 23 announced a series of “10 guarantees” aimed at women voters in West Bengal, intensifying the BJP’s campaign ahead of the second phase of Assembly elections.

Speaking at a rally in Krishnanagar, Modi targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) while pitching a welfare-focused agenda for women and children if the BJP comes to power in the state.

The proposed guarantees include setting up women’s police stations in every block and increasing recruitment of women in the police force. Modi also promised stricter action against crimes targeting women, stating that those responsible would be punished under a BJP government.

A key highlight of the announcement was direct financial assistance. Modi said ₹36,000 would be transferred annually to women beneficiaries, along with an additional ₹36,000 aimed at improving child nutrition. He also promised ₹21,000 support for pregnant women and ₹50,000 assistance for girls upon graduation.

The Prime Minister further said that women would benefit from self-employment opportunities through loans of up to ₹20 lakh under central schemes, while pledging to support lakhs of women in becoming “Lakhpati Didis.”

Healthcare was another focus area, with Modi stating that free treatment up to ₹5 lakh would be provided under government schemes. He also referred to savings initiatives like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana to secure the future of girl children.

Alongside the welfare promises, Modi sharpened his political attack on the TMC, alleging corruption and lack of accountability, and claiming that the ruling party may struggle to perform in several districts.

The announcement comes as West Bengal heads into the second phase of polling in a closely contested election, with both the BJP and TMC focusing heavily on women voters, who form a significant part of the electorate.