30 April,2026 07:27 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondent
Mamata Banerjee said that the results would reflect the "true mandate" of the people. File Pic
Ahead of the results for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged that exit poll projections were circulated at the 'instruction of the BJP' to demoralise Trinamool Congress workers, reported the PTI.
Polling for the final phase of West Bengal elections concluded on April 29 and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
Most exit polls had suggested a majority for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 294-member West Bengal Assembly, where the majority mark is 148.
Banerjee dismissed these projections and insisted that her party would secure more than 226 seats, with the possibility of crossing 230.
In a video message shared on social media, she claimed that several television channels aired projections that were allegedly sent from the BJP office, calling it part of a wider attempt to influence public perception.
She said the results would reflect the "true mandate" of the people.
According to the PTI, the Chief Minister alleged that exit poll data was part of a "larger conspiracy" designed to influence voter sentiment and weaken the morale of Trinamool Congress workers.
She further claimed that financial incentives were used to broadcast certain projections, though she did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
Banerjee also criticised the role of central forces deployed during the elections, alleging that they acted in favour of the BJP.
She reiterated long-standing accusations that central agencies were being used to target opposition workers in the state.
The TMC chief urged party workers to remain alert during the counting process, asking them to closely monitor strong rooms where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are stored.
She warned against possible tampering during transportation of EVMs to counting centres and advised workers to stay present at all times.
Banerjee also encouraged workers to remain in shifts overnight and ensure that counting tables were never left unattended.
Despite her allegations, Banerjee appealed for calm and discipline among supporters.
She urged party workers not to resort to violence under any circumstances and to await the final results.
She expressed confidence that the electorate would deliver what she described as a "decisive and corrective mandate".
(with PTI inputs)
