Union Home Minister Amit Shah found himself trending online after a quick response to a supporter waiting in the heat for his roadshow in West Bengal’s Madhyamgram, with his “reaching in 10 mins” reply drawing wide attention on social media.
The exchange came in the middle of a high-pitched Assembly election campaign in West Bengal, where both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress are pushing hard across closely fought constituencies, including Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas.
Social media exchange during campaign gains traction
According to ANI, the moment unfolded after Shah shared a sunset video on Thursday with the caption, “The sun of the TMC’s corruption and hooliganism has set.”
A user replied to his post, urging him to arrive quickly for the roadshow, saying, “Jaldi aa jaiye, Amit ji…khade hai hum log road show k liye garmi me bohot der se (Please come quickly, Amit ji… We have been standing here in the heat for a very long time, waiting for the roadshow).”
Shah responded directly, writing, “Sorry for the delay. Reaching there in 10 mins.”
Madhyamgram contest and political stakes
The roadshow was held to campaign for BJP candidate Anindya Raju Banerjee, who is contesting against Trinamool Congress leader Rathin Ghosh, a three-time MLA from the constituency.
Madhyamgram, carved out after delimitation in 2011, has remained with the TMC since its creation. However, BJP leaders see an opening as Rathin Ghosh’s winning margin has narrowed to about 1.2 per cent of the total votes in the last two elections.
Sharing visuals from the roadshow on X, Shah wrote, “The people of Madhyamgram Assembly Constituency have not forgotten the atrocities committed against women in Sandeshkhali. This surge of people spilling over during the roadshow is a symbol of the end of the grassroots regime.”
High voter turnout marks Phase I polling
Meanwhile, Phase I polling in West Bengal concluded at 6 pm on Thursday, recording a turnout of 91.83 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India.
Officials said the high turnout reflected strong voter participation, with polling held under tight security arrangements across constituencies.
The second phase of polling is scheduled for April 29, while the counting of votes will take place on May 4.