Olympic tennis legend Leander Paes on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the West Bengal government, raising concerns over rising migration of youth from the state, even as the political tussle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) intensified over alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata during the launch of the BJP’s outreach initiative, Paes questioned why young people were leaving Bengal in search of better opportunities. He attributed the trend to declining prospects in education, employment, and sports within the state, arguing that many youths are compelled to move elsewhere for a better quality of life.
Paes emphasized that India’s broader growth trajectory contrasts with Bengal’s situation, stating that the state risks falling behind unless systemic improvements are made. He highlighted the need to focus on “education, employment, entrepreneurship, and empowerment” to reverse migration trends.
The remarks came as the BJP unveiled its “Yuva Shakti” outreach programme alongside initiatives like the “Matrishakti Bhorsa” card, which promises financial assistance to women. The programme is part of the party’s campaign ahead of the ongoing 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly election.
However, the TMC has lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission against BJP leaders, including Smriti Irani and Suvendu Adhikari, alleging that the distribution of forms and promotion of the “Matrishakti Bhorsa” scheme violate the Model Code of Conduct.
According to the complaint, BJP workers have been distributing forms linked to the scheme and allegedly encouraging women to enroll, which the TMC claims amounts to inducement of voters. The party also alleged that financial benefits were being promised or disbursed under the guise of the scheme, raising concerns about electoral malpractice.
The BJP, meanwhile, has defended its outreach efforts, describing them as part of its election campaign and manifesto promises aimed at women and youth.
With polling for the West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled later this month, the controversy underscores the intensifying political battle in the state, where issues like migration, employment, and welfare schemes have become central to campaign narratives.