A Bharatiya Janata Party leader in West Bengal sparked controversy by suggesting husbands should "lock up their wives" who receive the state's Lakshmir Bhandar cash incentive to prevent them from voting for the Trinamool Congress. The remark drew condemnation, with the Trinamool Congress accusing the BJP of an "anti-women" mindset. The incident highlighted the significant electoral impact of the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, which provides monthly financial assistance to millions of women and has helped solidify support for the Trinamool Congress.