100 days of BJP Government in West Bengal | Balancing trust and mistrust

On August 17, the Bharatiya Janata Party government in West Bengal unveiled a set of 8 pillars for its first 100 days in power, promising industrialization, good governance, law and order, national security, health, education, and empowerment. The party had campaigned on the promise of "bhorosa" (trust) and vowed to eliminate "bhoy" (fear) during the West Bengal Assembly elections of 2026.

The Suvendu Adhikari government has made strides in a few areas, such as introducing a single-window clearance for investments over ₹100 crore and pledging a new industrial policy. They claim to have received investment proposals worth ₹54,000 crores, with numerous foundation-stone ceremonies for industrial projects. However, critics argue that these promises are reminiscent of those made by the previous Trinamool Congress government.

While there is optimism among industrialists regarding the change in leadership, the BJP must deliver on its promises to attract much-needed investment, especially considering the state's lag behind southern and western states in terms of private investment. Simultaneously, the BJP has focused on improving law and order, arresting numerous Trinamool Congress leaders and employing aggressive policing tactics, including "encounters."

The government has also implemented a shift in social welfare schemes, targeting only deserving beneficiaries, and is attempting to restrict other social benefits like food grains distribution and caste certificates. The BJP government's decision to roll out a Uniform Civil Code and crackdown on loudspeakers in religious places further exemplifies its determination to implement structural reforms.

While the BJP enjoys the support of the National Democratic Alliance at the center and the Opposition is weak in West Bengal, the government faces the challenge of translating its initial gains into sustained growth and real trust among the populace.