Jobs, “bhoy” and ‘outsider’ tag on Bharatiya Janata Party: What Siliguri is thinking as West Bengal heads to polls | Ground report

A hush of “bhoy” (fear) hangs over markets in Siliguri as the city heads toward polling day, with political conversations turning cautious and subdued.

The contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the challenger Bharatiya Janata Party appears tightly poised, with voters divided and many reluctant to speak openly. While some traders voice strong support—backing Mamata Banerjee and predicting a sweeping win—others express confidence in the BJP’s chances.

On the ground, unemployment emerges as a major concern, even as claims around women’s safety—highlighted by Narendra Modi—draw mixed responses from residents, many of whom say the situation is not as dire as portrayed.

The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls by the Election Commission of India has also become a flashpoint, with allegations of voter deletions countered by assurances that eligible names can be restored.

The BJP, however, faces additional challenges, including the perception of being an “outsider” party and the lack of a clear chief ministerial face to take on Banerjee, though leaders like Suvendu Adhikari are being discussed locally.

With voting set in two phases and the battle appearing close, many voters remain cautious, choosing silence over political expression amid the charged atmosphere.