Modi claims victory in West Bengal assembly election

Modi declares win as counting trends favour BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the West Bengal assembly election. He made the announcement as early counting trends showed the BJP leading in a majority of constituencies.

Speaking to party workers in New Delhi, Modi said the results reflected the people's trust in the BJP's development agenda and governance. The Trinamool Congress, which has ruled the state for over a decade, has not yet conceded defeat.

A high-stakes battle in eastern India

The West Bengal election was one of the most closely watched contests this year. The BJP poured significant resources into the state, aiming to unseat Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress.

The campaign was marked by sharp exchanges between the two parties. Modi held multiple rallies across the state, focusing on issues of corruption and law and order. Banerjee countered with accusations of central government overreach and attacks on federalism.

Voter turnout was high, with over 82 percent of the electorate casting their ballots across the eight-phase polling process.

What the trends indicate

According to the Election Commission's counting data, the BJP was leading in over 160 seats in the 294-member assembly. The Trinamool Congress was ahead in around 110 seats. The Left Front and Congress trailed far behind.

If the trends hold, the BJP will secure a clear majority. The party had won only three seats in the state in the 2021 assembly election. This would mark a dramatic reversal of fortunes.

Final results are expected later in the day. The Election Commission has deployed additional security personnel at counting centres to ensure a peaceful process.

Reactions and next steps

Modi thanked the people of West Bengal for what he called a historic mandate. He said the BJP would focus on development, job creation, and improving infrastructure in the state.

Trinamool Congress leaders maintained that the counting process was still underway and urged supporters to wait for official results. Banerjee has not made any public statement so far.

The opposition Congress party acknowledged the trends but said the final outcome would depend on the complete count. Left Front leaders conceded that the results were not in their favour.

Election analysts pointed out that the BJP's strong showing in West Bengal could reshape the political dynamics of eastern India. The state sends 42 members to the Lok Sabha, making it a key prize for any national party.

All eyes are now on the final tally and the formal declaration of results by the Election Commission.