Campaigning intensified in Purba Bardhaman ahead of the second phase of polling, as Abhishek Banerjee addressed rallies on Sunday in Purbasthali Uttar and Katwa constituencies. He campaigned for Trinamool candidates Vasundhara Goswami and Rabindranath Chattopadhyay, while launching sharp attacks on BJP nominees.
Attack on BJP candidates
At the rallies, Abhishek Banerjee targeted BJP candidates Gopal Chattopadhyay and Krishna Ghosh. Criticising the selection of candidates, he said, "The BJP is sending candidates whom even its own workers do not accept, like discounted items in a seasonal sale."
Referring to an alleged past incident, he claimed that a ration dealer linked to Gopal Chattopadhyay's family was caught smuggling subsidised rice. "When officials went to investigate, he allegedly obstructed them. Since then, locals refer to him as 'Chal Chor Gopal'," Banerjee said.
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He also raised questions about the Katwa candidate, alleging internal dissatisfaction within the BJP. "There is resentment within the party over this nomination. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, allegations of financial irregularities were raised against him, and his residence was surrounded," he added.
Message on candidate accountability
Focusing on Trinamool's candidate in Purbasthali Uttar, Vasundhara Goswami, Abhishek Banerjee addressed concerns about her being an "outsider". He said the party had set clear expectations.
"A condition has been imposed. She must stay here at least four days a week. Her work, office, and public engagement must be centred in this constituency," he stated.
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He also stressed accountability within the party. "If any Trinamool candidate fails to serve people with dedication, the party will not nominate that person again. No one is above the people," Banerjee said.
The rallies come days before voting, as parties intensify outreach and sharpen attacks in key constituencies of the district.
