Ananya Lohia , Kolkata - Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, April 23, 2026 while addressing a public rally in Krishnanagar, said that poll-related violence in West Bengal has been the lowest in the past 50 years. He also thanked the Election Commission of India for ensuring largely peaceful polling in the state.

Addressing the gathering in Krishnanagar, the Prime Minister credited the Election Commission, central forces, and strict security arrangements for the improved law-and-order situation during the ongoing Assembly elections. He stated that West Bengal, which has often witnessed electoral violence in the past, is now seeing a significant shift towards peaceful voting. Areas in districts like Murshidabad reported clashes, crude bomb hurling, and allegations of voter intimidation. There were also complaints regarding EVM glitches in a few polling stations. However, officials maintained that these incidents were isolated and did not affect the overall electoral process significantly.

During his speech, the Prime Minister also outlined key promises if the BJP comes to power in West Bengal. He assured that a BJP government would prioritize development, improve law and order, and work towards creating more employment opportunities for the youth. He also promised better infrastructure, transparency in governance, and an end to what he described as political violence in the state. The Prime Minister further emphasized welfare measures, stating that central schemes would be implemented more effectively and without political bias. He assured the people that farmers, women, and small business owners would receive greater support under a BJP-led government. Meanwhile, the Election Commission reiterated its commitment to conducting free and fair elections, stating that all complaints are being addressed as per established norms. Authorities have assured continued strict monitoring in the remaining phases of polling. In a lighter moment, PM Modi recalled his recent Jhargram visit, where he made an impromptu stop at a snack shop for Jhalmuri, quipping that its ‘spice’ had already begun to trouble the TMC, drawing cheers from the crowd.

While isolated incidents have been reported, the overall polling process in West Bengal has remained relatively peaceful, according to official assessments. With campaigning intensifying and more phases of voting ahead, political rhetoric is expected to sharpen, even as authorities focus on ensuring violence-free elections. The outcome will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s political future and testing the promises made during the campaign. PM Modi is scheduled to address multiple rallies on Thursday in south Bengal as campaigning intensifies alongside the ongoing polling process.