Patna, April 1 (IANS) Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey, who is also the BJP’s election in-charge for West Bengal, on Wednesday expressed confidence that the party would secure victory in the state.

Addressing the media at Patna Airport, he claimed that people are dissatisfied with the governance of the Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and are now looking towards a “double-engine government” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He further alleged that the Trinamool Congress leadership has grown apprehensive ahead of the elections and is therefore targeting both the Election Commission and the BJP with accusations.

Pandey also said that strict monitoring by authorities would ensure free and fair elections this time.

Responding to queries regarding political developments in Bihar, including speculation surrounding Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Pandey asserted that all leaders are working cohesively under his leadership, rejecting allegations of any internal pressure.

Amid rising global tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran, concerns over the impact on petroleum products and gas supplies have begun to surface.

However, the Centre has assured that India currently has sufficient reserves of both oil and gas.

Mangal Pandey said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the evolving international situation.

He emphasised that the Prime Minister has assured citizens that there will be no shortage of fuel supplies in the country.

“Our Prime Minister has assured the entire nation that there is currently no shortage of oil in the country, nor will there be in the future. Similarly, there is no shortage of gas, nor will there be. The Government of India will take all necessary steps in the national interest to ensure the welfare of its citizens,” Pandey said.

He further said that the government remains fully prepared to take any necessary decisions to safeguard energy security, dismissing concerns raised by the Opposition as unfounded.

The conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran has been continuing for more than a month.

–IANS

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