PM Modi's Kolkata rally: SPG orders stage removal, soil scanned for security
SPG tightens security for PM Modi's Kolkata rally, orders removal of main stage for soil scanning to detect potential threats. BJP's Parivartan Yatra finale scheduled for March 14.
Kolkata (The Uttam Hindu): Kolkata's Brigade Parade Ground has been transformed into a security fortress ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mega rally scheduled for March 14. Citing security concerns, the Special Protection Group (SPG) has ordered the immediate removal of the main stage built for the rally. This step has been taken to ensure the Prime Minister's safety by thoroughly examining the soil beneath the stage using advanced technology.
Emphasis on soil testing for safety reasons
On Tuesday afternoon, senior SPG officials visited the rally site and stressed the need for detailed scanning to detect any potential threats underground. The main stage was prepared within a massive hangar structure over the past three days under the supervision of BJP leader Raju Bandyopadhyay. Now, as part of security protocols, the ground beneath the entire structure will be inspected. While time is a major challenge for BJP organizers, they believe that other arrangements, such as barricades and sound systems, have been completed, allowing the stage to be re-erected after the inspection.
The Parivartan Yatra will have a grand finale
BJP leaders performed a groundbreaking ceremony at Brigade Grounds on March 7th, attended by several prominent leaders, including Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Bengal in-charge Sunil Bansal. This rally by the Prime Minister marks the culmination of the BJP's "Parivartan Yatra" in West Bengal. The convoy of nine Parivartan Raths, which have been traveling across the state, will arrive in Kolkata, where PM Modi will address a large public rally and inaugurate several development projects.
This rally is strategically important
Over the past decade, the BJP has significantly strengthened its roots in West Bengal. In the 2021 assembly elections, the party's tally increased from 3 seats to 77. Although the BJP's seat count declined from 18 to 12 in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, its vote share remained stable. The BJP leadership is preparing to address the shortcomings of 2021 and 2024 and re-energize its workers for the upcoming elections through this rally. This public meeting, held after administrative meetings, is considered crucial for Bengal politics.