Mamata Raises Concerns Over Counting Process
Amid a strong performance by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday alleged irregularities in the ongoing vote counting process of the 2026 Assembly elections. She claimed that counting had been halted at several locations and accused authorities of unfair practices.
BJP Surges Ahead in Early Trends
According to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the BJP is leading comfortably and appears set to secure a full majority in the 294-member Assembly. The party is ahead in over 200 seats, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) is trailing significantly with leads in around 80 seats.
Allegations Against Election Authorities
As counting trends began to emerge, Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission and central forces of acting in a biased manner. She alleged that discrepancies were being observed in multiple counting centres and claimed that certain results were not being properly reported.
Appeal to Party Workers
In a video message, the Chief Minister urged her party’s counting agents not to leave the counting centres under any circumstances. She encouraged them to stay vigilant and insisted that the battle was not over yet. She expressed confidence that the outcome could still shift as counting progressed.
Claims of Strategic Disruptions
Banerjee further alleged that counting had been deliberately stopped in some areas as part of a strategy to benefit the BJP. She pointed to specific locations where mismatches were reportedly found in voting machines and accused central forces of exerting pressure on TMC workers.
TMC Faces Tough Battle
Based on current trends, the Trinamool Congress appears to be heading toward a major electoral setback, which could end Mamata Banerjee’s bid for a fourth consecutive term. The BJP’s strong lead marks a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
High Voter Turnout Recorded
The election witnessed a remarkable voter turnout, with over 92 percent participation across phases—one of the highest since independence. The high turnout indicates strong public engagement in this closely watched election.
A Historic Shift in Bengal Politics?
If the trends hold, the BJP could form the government in West Bengal for the first time as a dominant force. Final results are expected later in the day, which will determine whether this political shift becomes a historic reality.