‘Don’t Step Out on April 23’: Amit Shah Issues Stern Warning to TMC ‘Goons’ Ahead of Bengal Polls

By New Delhi Chronicle News Desk Updated: April 15, 2026

Kolkata: In a high-octane campaign rally in Birbhum’s Mayureswar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), warning “political goons” of severe consequences if they attempt to disrupt the democratic process.

Shah’s remarks come as West Bengal prepares for a pivotal two-phase Assembly election, with the first phase of polling scheduled for April 23. Addressing a massive gathering, the Home Minister asserted that the days of “intimidation and syndicate raj” are numbered.

“Stay Home on April 23”: The Ultimatum

Sending a direct message to those allegedly used by the TMC to influence voters, Amit Shah stated:

“I want to warn Mamata’s goons: do not step out on 23 April. If you try to intimidate voters, remember that after 5 May, when the BJP government is formed, you will face the consequences. We will ensure every person responsible for political violence is held accountable.”

Shah emphasized that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has already authorized the deployment of massive central paramilitary forces across North and South Bengal to ensure a fear-free environment for electors.

Key Highlights of Amit Shah’s Speech:

• Central Forces Deployment: Over 800 companies of CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) are being stationed to prevent booth capturing and voter intimidation.

• The ‘May 5’ Deadline: Shah predicted a decisive BJP victory, claiming that the results on May 4 will pave the way for a “Double Engine” government by May 5.

• Crackdown on Infiltrators: The Home Minister reiterated the party’s stance on border security, promising to “chun chun ke” (one by one) identify and deport illegal infiltrators who threaten state security.

• Border Fencing: He committed to completing all pending border fencing work within 45 days of assuming power in the state.

Paramilitary Shield for Voters

To counter the history of post-poll violence in the state, the ECI has taken unprecedented measures. Strategic pockets in Birbhum, Murshidabad, and North Bengal have been placed under a “security blanket.”

“Neither infiltrators nor goons will be able to intimidate the people this time. The ballot will be stronger than the bomb,” Shah told the cheering crowd, referring to the recent recovery of explosives in various districts.

The Road to May 4

With polling on April 23 and April 29, and counting set for May 4, West Bengal is witnessing its most polarized contest yet. While Mamata Banerjee continues to campaign on the “Bengali Pride” and social welfare schemes, the BJP has pivoted its strategy toward “Law and Order” and “Corruption-free Governance.”

As the state inches closer to the first phase, all eyes are on the Election Commission to see if the deployment of central forces can indeed guarantee the “peaceful polls” that Amit Shah has promised.