Exit poll trends for the West Bengal Assembly elections have thrown up mixed signals, with different agencies offering sharply contrasting predictions. While several surveys indicate an advantage for the Bharatiya Janata Party, one prominent poll has projected a decisive lead for the party, triggering a strong response from the ruling All India Trinamool Congress.
According to the latest projections by Today’s Chanakya, the Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to secure a commanding majority in the 294-member West Bengal Assembly, with an estimated tally of around 192 seats, while the All India Trinamool Congress may be limited to nearly 100 seats. The remaining seats are expected to go to smaller parties and independents.
The projection, released after the completion of the second phase of polling, has added to the political suspense in the state, especially as not all exit poll agencies agree on the final outcome. While many have shown the BJP gaining ground, some surveys have predicted that the ruling Trinamool Congress could still retain power with a comfortable majority.
Rejecting the exit poll numbers, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the predictions were politically influenced and intended to create confusion before the counting of votes.
In a video statement issued after the release of the surveys, Mamata Banerjee thanked voters for turning out in large numbers despite difficult weather conditions and claimed that the exit poll narratives were being pushed to demoralise workers of the Trinamool Congress.
She asserted that the All India Trinamool Congress would secure more than 226 seats, and accused the BJP of using money, administrative power and central agencies to influence the election atmosphere.
The Chief Minister also urged party candidates to remain vigilant during the counting process, raising concerns over the safety of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and asking party workers to stay alert at counting centres.
Polling in West Bengal was held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the state witnessing a high voter turnout amid intense campaigning by both major parties. The final result will be announced on May 4, when the votes are counted.
