Kolkata: Candidates across party lines on Saturday reached out to residents in the city and its fringes, blending Eid greetings with a pre-poll push for the April assembly elections. From greeting those offering prayers in mosques to visiting neighbourhoods, politicians braved rain from early morning, connecting with voters over sweets and flowers.In North Kolkata, Trinamool candidate from Shyampukur, Shashi Panja, visited Baghbazar Mosque to meet local families. At Alambazar Jama Masjid, Trinamool’s Baranagar candidate Sayantika Banerjee met devotees. “People were very warm, many invited me home. In our state, we celebrate all festivals irrespective of caste or creed,” Banerjee said.CPM’s Ballygunge candidate Afrin Begum visited several pockets to share festive greetings. “I grew up here. Today is about sharing joy and a reminder to shun divisiveness and promote peace,” she said.CPM’s Jadavpur nominee Bikashranjan Bhattacharyya and Baranagar candidate Sayandeep Mitra also spent the day visiting mosques and wishing residents in their respective constituencies.Despite the downpour, Trinamool’s Jorasanko candidate Vijay Upadhyay toured Zakaria Street, Madan Mohan Burman Street and Rajabazar. “We are one big family here. They know Vijay Upadhyay will always be there to serve them,” he said.
