As the early results of the West Bengal Assembly elections began to roll in, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) expressed her determination, stating that her party will triumph ‘after sunset.’ With trends showing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) taking a substantial lead, Banerjee urged her supporters to maintain their optimism and remain focused during the counting process. At around 1:40 PM, reports indicated that the BJP was dominating in 192 constituencies compared to TMC’s 94, a significant figure given that a party needs 148 seats for a majority in the 294-member Assembly.
The Chief Minister was quick to dismiss the BJP’s early leads, asserting that the claims of their imminent victory amounted to ‘fake news.’ She framed the dissemination of such narratives as a calculated move by the BJP to demoralize TMC supporters, encouraging her party members to be vigilant and not abandon the counting centers. “In the initial rounds of counting, they will tally their votes. However, in nearly 100 constituencies, the counting has come to a halt where we are leading, yet this is not being reported,” Banerjee claimed, emphasizing her belief that the situation was more favorable for TMC than it appeared.
Banerjee also raised concerns regarding the role of the Election Commission, accusing it of facilitating the BJP’s agenda through the deployment of central paramilitary forces at counting locations. Her remarks underscore a broader narrative that has emerged over the course of the campaign, in which TMC has frequently alleged bias and interference from central authorities.
In a video message to her supporters, Banerjee reiterated that the counting process is far from over, imploring her team to stay hopeful. “I had predicted that we would secure a victory after sunset. There are many rounds of counting still to come. So, stay patient and don’t be frightened,” she urged, attempting to bolster the spirits of her party members and counting agents.
The upcoming hours will be critical as more results unfold and the situation becomes clearer. With the stakes high, the political intensity in West Bengal is palpable, and it remains to be seen whether Banerjee’s predictions will hold true. As the sun sets on this crucial day, the fidelity of electoral processes and the resilience of party supporters will be tested, making this election a pivotal moment in West Bengal’s political landscape.
