Even before releasing its state-wide manifesto for the Assembly elections, the BJP on Wednesday sharpened its focus on the high-profile Bhowanipore constituency, with Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari unveiling a separate local manifesto titled ‘Viksit Bhowanipore’.
The move underscores the strategic importance the party has attached to the constituency, represented by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Party insiders indicated that the document has been tailored keeping in mind the demographic composition and specific civic concerns of the area, attempting to reach out to a broad cross-section of residents. Mr Adhikari is scheduled to file his nomination from Bhowanipore on Thursday. Union home minister Amit Shah is expected to be present during the nomination process of BJP candidates.
A road show from Hazra crossing will precede the filing of nomination papers, setting the tone for a direct political contest against the Chief Minister. The four-point framework of the manifesto broadly focuses on improved infrastructure and healthcare, strengthened law and order, preservation of cultural heritage, and youth welfare coupled with social justice. A key emphasis has been placed on civic services, with the BJP attempting to project a gap in municipal delivery even in the Chief Minister’s own constituency.
Among the promises, Mr Adhikari assured piped and purified drinking water to every household in Bhowanipore, alongside comprehensive road repairs and development of better road infrastructure across all wards. Addressing recurring monsoon hazards in Kolkata, the manifesto highlights measures to prevent deaths due to electrocution and proposes a modernised drainage system.
Healthcare reforms also feature prominently, with assurances of improved services in government hospitals and the creation of a broker-free environment for patients. The manifesto further seeks to address concerns of the local business community by promising a fear-free and extortion-free atmosphere, particularly for jewellery shop owners, who have often raised security concerns.
The BJP leader also pledged strict action against illegal construction, forced property transfers, and encroachments. He asserted that policing would be free from political interference, while ensuring a “100 per cent safe environment” for women. Measures to curb illegal parking-related extortion and dismantle syndicate operations have also been proposed. In addition, the manifesto promises restoration of the Adi Ganga and development of its ghats to make them suitable for bathing. Cultural preservation finds mention through commitments to keep institutions associated with figures like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Syama Prasad Mookerjee free from political influence.
The document also proposes support for traditional artisans in Kalighat, including potters and pat painters, and outlines plans to introduce skill development programmes in government schools to boost employment opportunities.
The BJP had recently released constituency-wise “charge sheets” highlighting local issues. However, Bhowanipore remains the only seat so far to receive a dedicated pre-manifesto document, signalling the party’s intensified electoral push in the constituency.