Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed strong confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the next government in West Bengal after the ongoing Assembly elections, stating that he plans to return for the oath-taking ceremony.

Addressing a rally during the final phase of campaigning, the Prime Minister said he would come back to the state after the declaration of results to attend the swearing-in of the BJP government.

Confidence ahead of results

The remarks came during his last campaign event, where he indicated optimism about the party’s electoral performance. The results of the West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4.

He told the gathering that the enthusiasm and public support witnessed during his campaign tours had strengthened his belief that the BJP would secure a mandate in the state.

Campaign concludes amid high political stakes

The Prime Minister’s statement underscores the high-stakes political battle in West Bengal, where the BJP is aiming to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress. The election has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, with voter turnout remaining high in earlier phases.

The West Bengal Assembly elections are being held in multiple phases, with counting set to determine the next government in the state.

Raghav Chadha has defended his decision to leave the Aam Aadmi Party and join the Bharatiya Janata Party, stating that a “toxic work environment” within his former party forced him to take the step.

In a video shared on Instagram, the Rajya Sabha MP addressed criticism over his political switch and said the internal atmosphere in AAP had deteriorated significantly over time.

‘Stopped from working and speaking’

Chadha claimed that he and others were unable to function effectively within the party, alleging that leaders were restricted from expressing themselves or carrying out their responsibilities.

He said the environment had become increasingly difficult, adding that it was no longer possible for him to contribute meaningfully under such conditions.

Decision after years of association

The politician, who had been associated with AAP since its early days, said he had devoted a significant part of his life to the party but felt it had changed over the years. Reports indicate he highlighted that the organisation was not the same as when he joined it.

Chadha also suggested that his decision was not impulsive but taken after careful consideration of available options, including staying back or leaving politics altogether.

Response to backlash

The move has triggered strong reactions from political circles and supporters, with criticism emerging over his switch to the BJP. However, Chadha defended his choice, pointing to internal challenges and a lack of space to work within AAP.

He further argued that multiple leaders leaving the party should prompt reflection, questioning whether all of them could be wrong.

Political impact

Chadha’s exit is part of a larger development where several AAP leaders have shifted to the BJP, significantly altering the party’s strength in the Rajya Sabha.

The development has intensified political tensions between the two parties, with AAP criticising the defections and BJP welcoming the new entrants.

A fresh political confrontation has erupted between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Aam Aadmi Party over allegations surrounding a newly allotted residence to Arvind Kejriwal, with the BJP dubbing it “Sheesh Mahal 2”.

The controversy began after Parvesh Verma released images and a layout of the bungalow, claiming that high-end amenities in the property were funded using “private money”. The BJP alleged that the residence reflects an extravagant lifestyle, reviving earlier accusations linked to the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy.

The remarks came soon after Kejriwal moved into the government-allotted accommodation in Delhi’s Lodhi Estate, adding political heat to an already tense atmosphere.

In response, AAP leaders rejected the allegations outright, asserting that the images circulated by BJP leaders were not authentic. Party representatives claimed the visuals were sourced from online platforms and do not represent the actual residence.

The party also accused the BJP of spreading misinformation to target Kejriwal politically and damage his public image.

Political tensions rise amid recent defections

The row comes at a time when tensions between the two parties are already high following recent political developments, including the exit of senior leaders from AAP.

Raghav Chadha, who recently shifted political alignment, also weighed in on the issue, adding another dimension to the ongoing confrontation. His remarks are seen as part of a broader political attack on AAP amid internal challenges and shifting loyalties.

The developments have intensified the war of words between the BJP and AAP, with both sides trading allegations over governance, transparency, and political intent.

Ongoing battle of narratives

While the BJP continues to question the nature of the residence and its alleged expenses, AAP has maintained that the claims are baseless and politically motivated.

With both parties standing firm on their positions, the “Sheesh Mahal 2” issue is likely to remain a key flashpoint in Delhi’s political landscape in the coming days.