The political landscape of the Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency turned into a high-stakes battlefield this Friday as Ram Navami celebrations collided with election campaigning. On one side, the BJP candidate led a massive bike rally with swords in hand and slogans of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ echoing through the streets. On the other side, the incumbent MP and TMC star candidate, Dev (Deepak Adhikari), launched a scathing verbal attack, stating he does not believe in enticing voters with “lollipops” (fake promises) during the election season.

The War of Words The atmosphere in Ghatal was a mix of religious intensity and political strategy. While the BJP aimed to consolidate Hindu votes through its grand Ram Navami procession, Dev focused on his development plank. After offering prayers at a local temple, Dev addressed the media, emphasizing that religion should not be used as a political tool. “Faith belongs in the heart, not on the ballot paper. I have served Ghatal for a decade, and I believe in showing results, not handing out decorative lollipops to win votes,” Dev remarked, indirectly criticizing the BJP’s campaign style.

Focus on the Ghatal Master Plan Dev reiterated his commitment to the long-pending ‘Ghatal Master Plan’ and other infrastructure projects. He suggested that waving swords and chanting slogans won’t solve the recurring flood issues in the region—only consistent administrative work will. The BJP was quick to respond, claiming that the ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogan represents cultural identity and is not a political gimmick. As the election fever reaches its peak, the people of Ghatal find themselves at a crossroads: one path fueled by religious identity and the other by the narrative of development and secular work culture.