Mamata Issues Strong Appeal to Party Workers
With counting trends pointing towards a major lead for the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reached out to her party cadre with an urgent message. In a video statement shared online, she urged counting agents and candidates to remain present at counting centres and not lose confidence amid early trends.
She said, “I request all our counting agents and candidates not to leave their centres. Only a few rounds have been completed, and many more are yet to come.”
Allegations Over Counting Irregularities
Banerjee raised concerns about the counting process, alleging disruptions and inconsistencies at multiple locations. She claimed that counting had been paused in several centres and questioned discrepancies in voting machines.
“Counting has stopped after a few rounds in many places. There are machines where figures are not matching. This is not acceptable,” she stated, while also alleging excessive pressure through central forces.
She further criticised the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, claiming it had impacted voter representation. “Votes were taken away in the name of SIR. Even now, there are seats where we are ahead but not being shown,” she added.
Defiant Tone Despite BJP Surge
Despite the BJP leading in a large number of constituencies—well beyond the halfway mark in the 294-seat Assembly—Banerjee maintained a confident stance. She reassured party workers that the outcome could still change as more rounds are counted.
“There are many rounds left. I had said earlier—you will see the result after sunset. Just wait and watch,” she said, striking a defiant tone even as early trends favoured the BJP.
Ground Situation and Political Impact
The All India Trinamool Congress, which has governed the state for over a decade, now faces one of its toughest electoral challenges. Meanwhile, the BJP’s strong showing suggests a potential shift in the state’s political balance.
Banerjee ended her message with a call for resilience among her supporters, saying, “Do not be afraid. We are with you. Stay strong and keep fighting.”
