BJP wins West Bengal assembly election, takes control from Mamata Banerjee

BJP ends Trinamool's decade-long rule in West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party has won the West Bengal assembly election, defeating Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress. The victory marks a historic shift in a state that Banerjee had ruled for over a decade.

The Election Commission confirmed that the BJP secured a clear majority, crossing the 148-seat mark in the 294-member assembly. The Trinamool Congress finished second, with around 110 seats. Other parties and independents took the remaining seats.

This is the first time the BJP has formed a government in West Bengal, a state long considered a stronghold of the Trinamool Congress and the Left Front before it. The win gives the BJP control over a politically and economically significant eastern Indian state.

Campaign focused on development, identity politics

The election campaign saw intense polarisation. The BJP focused on Hindutva identity politics and allegations of corruption against the Banerjee government. Banerjee countered with her record on welfare schemes and regional pride.

Modi addressed multiple rallies across the state, promising development and accusing Banerjee of dividing communities. Banerjee campaigned aggressively, positioning herself as a defender of West Bengal's cultural identity against what she called the BJP's centralised agenda.

Voter turnout was high, with many districts reporting over 80 per cent polling. Analysts say the BJP's ability to consolidate Hindu votes in large parts of rural Bengal was a decisive factor.

Reactions and political fallout

Banerjee conceded defeat late Monday evening. In a brief statement, she said her party respects the mandate and will play the role of a strong opposition. She also accused the BJP of using state machinery to influence the outcome, without providing specific evidence.

BJP leaders celebrated the victory as a turning point. State party president Sukanta Majumdar said the win reflects the people's desire for change and trust in Modi's leadership. The new chief minister is expected to be announced soon.

The victory strengthens Modi's position nationally. West Bengal sends 42 members to the Lok Sabha, and the BJP's control over the state government could help it expand its electoral base ahead of the next general election.

What happens next

The BJP will now form its first government in West Bengal. The new chief minister will have to address immediate challenges, including managing communal tensions and reviving the state's industrial growth. All eyes are on the cabinet formation and the first policy announcements.