Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a sharp political attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC), using his recent “jhalmuri” stop as a metaphor during a campaign rally in Krishnanagar amid the ongoing West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.
Addressing voters, the Prime Minister remarked, “Jhalmuri maine khayi, lekin jhal TMC ko lagi hai” (I ate the jhalmuri, but the spice affected TMC), suggesting that his public outreach had unsettled the ruling party.
Sharp Political Attack on TMC
During the rally, Modi alleged widespread public dissatisfaction with the TMC leadership, claiming that the party could face significant electoral setbacks. He accused the ruling party of promoting “lawlessness” and providing shelter to infiltrators, urging voters to support the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
He further asserted that the election results on May 4 would mark a decisive victory for his party, adding that celebrations would include traditional sweets as well as jhalmuri.
‘Jhalmuri Moment’ Gains Political Significance
The remark stems from a recent campaign stop in Jhargram, where Modi was seen interacting with a street vendor and enjoying the popular Bengali snack jhalmuri. The moment quickly gained traction on social media, with videos amassing millions of views.
The Prime Minister shared the clip online, presenting it as a spontaneous interaction with locals during his outreach campaign.
TMC Responds, Calls It ‘Scripted’
Mamata Banerjee, the TMC chief, dismissed the episode as staged. Speaking at a rally in Murarai, she questioned the authenticity of the interaction, alleging that the presence of cameras indicated pre-planning.
The exchange highlights the intensifying political rivalry between the BJP and TMC as polling continues in the state.
Citizenship Promise Under CAA
In his address, Modi also reached out to the Matua and Namashudra communities, assuring them of expedited citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) if the BJP comes to power in the state.
He emphasized that refugees seeking dignity and security in India would be protected and granted full rights as citizens under his government.
Election Context
The rally took place during the first phase of voting in West Bengal, a politically crucial state where the BJP is seeking to expand its footprint against the entrenched TMC leadership.
The election is being closely watched as a key indicator of political momentum ahead of future national contests.
