Old Modi Remark Resurfaces as BJP Leads in West Bengal Counting Trends
Kolkata, May 4: An earlier statement by Narendra Modi predicting a political shift in West Bengal has resurfaced as early counting trends show the Bharatiya Janata Party taking a significant lead over the ruling All India Trinamool Congress.
The remark, made during celebrations following the BJP’s victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, had linked electoral momentum from Bihar to Bengal. With current trends indicating a possible shift, the statement has gained renewed attention in political discussions.
As per data available on the Election Commission website till 12:30 p.m., trends for 266 out of 293 Assembly constituencies show BJP candidates leading in 173 seats, while the Trinamool Congress is ahead in 90. Other parties, including the Left Front-All India Secular Front alliance and the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, are leading in one seat each.
Among key contests, Mamata Banerjee is leading in the Bhabanipur constituency in Kolkata, while Suvendu Adhikari is ahead in Nandigram in East Midnapore district.
Officials have urged restraint as counting continues. Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal said victory processions would require prior approval from district authorities and appealed to political parties to ensure that celebrations do not lead to unrest.
The Election Commission of India has deployed around 700 companies of central forces in the state to prevent post-poll violence, drawing from past experiences in 2021.
Separately, repolling in the Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district is scheduled for May 21, with results to be declared on May 24.
If the current trends translate into final results, it could mark a significant political shift in the state’s electoral landscape. Counting is ongoing, and final results are awaited.
Our Final Thoughts
Early trends suggest a potentially significant shift, but outcomes remain subject to final counting. The scale of the BJP’s lead, if sustained, could alter West Bengal’s political trajectory, while administrative focus remains on ensuring a peaceful conclusion to the electoral process.