Siliguri, March 2 -- BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Monday, while addressing a traders' meet in Siliguri, said that the forthcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal would be crucial for ensuring the security and integrity of the region as an integral part of Indian territory.

Addressing members of traders and business associations, professionals and prominent citizens at a city hotel, Nabin launched a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleging administrative failure, corruption and a deteriorating industrial climate in the state.

Recalling his earlier visits to Durgapur industrial belt, Nabin said the region, once a thriving hub of employment, has witnessed a steady decline.

"A friend of mine had secured a job ...