New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharpened his attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress during a rally in Siliguri, raising concerns over national security and accusing the party of adopting a lenient stance towards separatist elements.
Addressing supporters in north Bengal, Modi highlighted the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck,” which connects mainland India to the northeastern states. He described the narrow stretch as critical to the country’s territorial integrity and security framework.
The Prime Minister alleged that certain groups advocating divisive agendas had previously issued threats related to the corridor and claimed that such elements received indirect support from the state’s ruling party. He criticised what he termed as policies driven by vote bank considerations, arguing that they could undermine national unity.
Without naming specific organisations, Modi referred to what he described as a “tukde tukde” group, accusing them of promoting secessionist ideas, including attempts to isolate the Northeast from the rest of the country. He further asserted that such narratives should be firmly opposed in the interest of safeguarding national interests.
The remarks drew a sharp response from senior Trinamool leader Bratya Basu, who dismissed the allegations and countered that the term is often used broadly to label political opponents. He criticised the remarks as politically motivated and lacking specificity.
The exchange reflects an increasingly intense political contest in West Bengal, where issues of national security, regional connectivity, and ideological differences are taking centre stage in the campaign discourse.
