4 years ago
Kolkata:
The Trinamool Congress' request for recount of votes in Nandigram constituency, where Mamata Banerjee has lost to BJP's Suvendu Adhikari by 1,736 votes, has been rejected by the Election Commission.
The Trinamool Congress had declared the counting process "fishy". Ms Banerjee had alleged "malpractices" and said she would approach the courts.
Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress is headed for a landslide victory in Bengal. The Trinamool won or was leading in 210 seats, while the BJP won or was leading in 80 as of 11:45 pm. However, for the most part of early trends, both parties were neck and neck.
"Let the Nandigram people give whatever verdict they want, I accept that. Nandigram was a sacrifice that was needed in the larger victory. We have won the state," said the Chief Minister.
The assembly election was spread over eight rounds of polling for a month amid the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The election saw a fierce contest between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP.
Both parties deployed their star candidates in the campaign. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah led the BJP campaign in Bengal, while Ms Banerjee was the main force for the Trinamool Congress during the campaigning phase.
Here are the live updates for results of the West Bengal assembly election 2021:
BJP Main Opposition In Bengal, Will Continue To Spread Its Ideology: JP Nadda
With the hard work of party workers, the BJP has been established as the main opposition party in West Bengal and it will continue to take spread its ideology and work for the dream of ''Sonar Bangla'', party president JP Nadda said on Sunday.
Mr Nadda said the party heartily respects the mandate of the people of Bengal and expresses its gratitude to them.
In a series of tweets, Mr Nadda thanked party workers, including BJP's Bengal unit chief Dilip Ghosh, for their tenacity and hard work.
"The BJP will continue to work for the dream of "Sonar Bengal" and will take its ideology to every household in Bengal," Mr Nadda said, adding it is the result of the hard work of party workers that the BJP was established as the main opposition party in the state.
#WestBengalElections2021 | Trinamool Congress is way past the halfway mark of 147 seats in West Bengal and is in a comfortable position, trends show pic.twitter.com/jxw7KhxMtv
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
West Bengal Polls: Left-Congress Alliance Fails To Win Single Seat
The Left Front, which had ruled West Bengal for 34 years, has failed to open its account in this election.
The Left Front comprising the Communist Party of India (Marxist), All India Forward Bloc, the Revolutionary Socialist Party and the Communist Party of India had a legacy in West Bengal and was one of the longest-serving elected governments in the world.
The Left Front made a coalition named Sanyukta Morcha with the Congress and Abbas Siddiqui's Indian Secular Front to try their luck in the 2021 West Bengal assembly polls.
Their rally at the Brigade Ground in Kolkata drew a large crowd earlier this year, but the united front could not win a single seat.
As per the latest counting trend, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has already won 207 seats and is leading in six constituencies. On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 74 seats and has a lead in three seats. When it comes to vote share, the Left Front has got around 5 per cent in this election.
Bengal Inc Congratulates Mamata Banerjee On Trinamool's Landslide Victory
Industrialists congratulated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday for her party's landslide victory in the West Bengal elections. The industry bodies said they would continue to support Banerjee in running the state.
"This was an unprecedented electoral franchise in the midst of the brutal and tragic second wave of the pandemic.
The chamber stands by the new government as a partner in such challenging times knowing that, as always, the people and economy of Bengal will resolutely surge forward," Bengal Chamber of Commerce president Deb A Mukherjee said.
CII congratulated Banerjee, saying that it would work to make the state one of the premier destinations for industry, investment and livelihood.
"For the last ten years, it has indeed been a pleasure to work with Banerjee and under her guidance, CII would like to assure its continued support and constant presence as one of the older institutions in this part of the country and make the state one of the premier destinations for industry, investment and livelihood," CII chairman (east) Vijay Dewan said.
BJP Main Opposition In Bengal, Will Continue To Spread Its Ideology: JP Nadda
Mr Nadda said the party heartily respects the mandate of the people of Bengal and expresses its gratitude to them.
In a series of tweets, Mr Nadda thanked party workers, including BJP''s Bengal unit chief Dilip Ghosh, for their tenacity and hard work.
"The BJP will continue to work for the dream of ''Sonar Bengal'' and will take its ideology to every household in Bengal," Mr Nadda said.
With the hard work of party workers, the BJP has been established as the main opposition party in West Bengal and it will continue to take spread its ideology and work for the dream of ''Sonar Bangla'', party president JP Nadda said on Sunday.
Mr Nadda said the party heartily respects the mandate of the people of Bengal and expresses its gratitude to them.
In a series of tweets, Mr Nadda thanked party workers, including BJP''s Bengal unit chief Dilip Ghosh, for their tenacity and hard work.
"The BJP will continue to work for the dream of ''Sonar Bengal'' and will take its ideology to every household in Bengal," Mr Nadda said.
#WestBengalElections2021 | BJP's Mukul Roy wins from Krishnanagar Uttar constituency with 95,391 votes pic.twitter.com/DfE89vvAjn
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Election Commission Rejects Trinamool's Request For Recount In Nandigram
The Election Commission rejected Trinamool Congress' request for recount of votes in the Nandigram constituency.
Earlier, a three-member Trinamool delegation had met the Chief Electoral Officer in Kolkata asking for recount in Nandigram and certain other serious issues.
Mamata Banerjee today won a landslide victory in Bengal but lost in a cliffhanger in Nandigram to the BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, her former protege.
"This Is The Last Time PM Modi Is Going To Be Here And Cat Call Women": Derek O'Brien
"Women of Bengal and all over the country are telling you Mr Modi enough is enough," he added.
In a conversation with NDTV, Trinamool MP Derek O'Brien said, "This is the last time PM Modi is going to be here and cat call women."
"Women of Bengal and all over the country are telling you Mr Modi enough is enough," he added.
Bengal Election Result: "Battle For Soul Of India," Says Trinamool's Amit Mitra
As Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is leading in 214 of Bengal's 294 seats and the BJP appears set to finish below the 100-mark, senior Trinamool leader Amit Mitra said it was "not a battle for Bengal, it's a battle for the soul of India."
#NDTVExclusive | "I hope the rest of India gets courage": @MahuaMoitra, TMC MP, Lok Sabha on Bengal #ElectionResults pic.twitter.com/Zz2M9qVrgv
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
#NDTVExclusive | "Mamata Banerjee gives everything that she has and she fights with her back to the wall. If we had 100 more chances, we would do it exactly the same way": @MahuaMoitra, TMC MP, Lok Sabha #ElectionResults #WestBengalPolls pic.twitter.com/M3Ua0CSJdt
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Just In | Three-member Trinamool delegation is meeting Chief Electoral Officer at the Election Commission Office in Kolkata asking for recount in Nandigram and certain other serious issues.
#NDTVExclusive | Derek O'Brien (@derekobrienmp), Leader, TMC says his party is 'humble in defeat, humble in victory'
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Live here: https://t.co/LpfcFgEPtg pic.twitter.com/E1KRgYfOsB
"Never seen such an election": Trinamool's Derek O'Brien
"I have been with Trinamool Congress now for 20 years, but I have never seen such an election in my life. It was a filthy campaign that was run by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah," Trinamool leader Derek O'Brien said.
"I have been with Trinamool Congress now for 20 years, but I have never seen such an election in my life. It was a filthy campaign that was run by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah," Trinamool leader Derek O'Brien said.
"Respect mandate of people": BJP
"The Bharatiya Janata Party heartily respects the mandate of the people of Bengal and expresses gratitude to the people for this result. We thank Dilip Ghosh and all the workers for their tenacity and hard work. The BJP will continue to work for the dream of Sonar Bengal," BJP chief JP Nadda tweeted.
"The Bharatiya Janata Party heartily respects the mandate of the people of Bengal and expresses gratitude to the people for this result. We thank Dilip Ghosh and all the workers for their tenacity and hard work. The BJP will continue to work for the dream of Sonar Bengal," BJP chief JP Nadda tweeted.
"Will visit Maa Kaali temple": Mamata Banerjee
"I will now visit the Maa Kaali temple and offer my prayers. I had taken a pledge and the priest had also asked me to come the day I win... I have not yet taken a decision on lockdown and that will be taken after I assess the situation after the oath taking ceremony of the new government," Mamata Banerjee said.
"Bengal has saved India": Mamata Banerjee
"Bengal has saved India. This is a victory of the people of Bengal and the people of India and the victory of democracy. Bengal has decimated BJP's ego," Mamata Banerjee said. "My first priority will be to work in the interest of the people - all who are affected by COVID-19... Despite all the efforts of the central forces, this has been a landslide victory for us. However, I appeal to everyone not to have any victory celebration due to the pandemic. The Election Commission fought with us just like BJP spokespersons. But we battled all and emerged victorious," she said.
"Bengal has saved India. This is a victory of the people of Bengal and the people of India and the victory of democracy. Bengal has decimated BJP's ego," Mamata Banerjee said. "My first priority will be to work in the interest of the people - all who are affected by COVID-19... Despite all the efforts of the central forces, this has been a landslide victory for us. However, I appeal to everyone not to have any victory celebration due to the pandemic. The Election Commission fought with us just like BJP spokespersons. But we battled all and emerged victorious," she said.
"Grateful To People For Landslide Victory": Mamata Banerjee
"We are grateful to the people for this landslide victory. I have to start working for COVID19 immediately. The swearing-in will be a low-key event because of the prevailing COVID19 situation," said Mamata Banerjee.
"We are grateful to the people for this landslide victory. I have to start working for COVID19 immediately. The swearing-in will be a low-key event because of the prevailing COVID19 situation," said Mamata Banerjee.
"BJP Played Dirty Politics": Mamata Banerjee
"BJP has lost the elections. They played dirty politics. We faced the horror of Election Commission," said Mamata Banerjee.
"BJP has lost the elections. They played dirty politics. We faced the horror of Election Commission," said Mamata Banerjee.
"Don't worry about Nandigram": Mamata Banerjee
"Don't worry about Nandigram. I struggled for Nandigram because I fought a movement. It's ok. Let Nandigram people give whatever verdict they want, I accept that. I don't mind. We won more than 221 seats and BJP has lost the election," Mamata Banerjee said.
"Don't worry about Nandigram. I struggled for Nandigram because I fought a movement. It's ok. Let Nandigram people give whatever verdict they want, I accept that. I don't mind. We won more than 221 seats and BJP has lost the election," Mamata Banerjee said.
Mamata Banerjee speaks on Nandigram verdict
"It seems that Nandigram might be going Suvendu Adhikari's way, but I cannot confirm a 100 per cent yet. What I am getting as we speak is that the last round of counting is going on and Suvendu Adhikari is leading by 1,622. Some are saying that this is how things may stand at the end. But I can only confirm when I know 100 per cent that that is the case," Mamata Banerjee said.
"It seems that Nandigram might be going Suvendu Adhikari's way, but I cannot confirm a 100 per cent yet. What I am getting as we speak is that the last round of counting is going on and Suvendu Adhikari is leading by 1,622. Some are saying that this is how things may stand at the end. But I can only confirm when I know 100 per cent that that is the case," Mamata Banerjee said.
BJP office on fire in Bengal's Arambagh
Videos circulated by BJP workers claimed that the party's office in Bengal's Arambagh was set on fire by unknown people, on a day when counting of votes is going on. The BJP's rival Trinamool is way ahead of the halfway mark.
Election results: Mamata Banerjee says fighting COVID-19 remains top priority
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said combating the COVID-19 situation will be the topmost priority of her government and dedicated her party's resounding victory to the people of the state. "For us, combating the COVID-19 situation will be the topmost priority... This is victory of Bengal and only Bengal can do it," she said in her brief message to party workers.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said combating the COVID-19 situation will be the topmost priority of her government and dedicated her party's resounding victory to the people of the state. "For us, combating the COVID-19 situation will be the topmost priority... This is victory of Bengal and only Bengal can do it," she said in her brief message to party workers.
Bengal election results: "Want to thank you all," says Mamata Banerjee
"All of you who have gathered here, I want to thank you all. You all have worked very hard. I am yet to speak to the media, so I will say what I have to at that time. This has been Bengal's big win. Till I address the press, I appeal to you all to go home and take a shower, sanitise well and maintain social distance from others. Please do not crowd around and indulge in celebrations," Mamata Banerjee said.
"All of you who have gathered here, I want to thank you all. You all have worked very hard. I am yet to speak to the media, so I will say what I have to at that time. This has been Bengal's big win. Till I address the press, I appeal to you all to go home and take a shower, sanitise well and maintain social distance from others. Please do not crowd around and indulge in celebrations," Mamata Banerjee said.
Bengal election results: "An emotional day," says Trinamool's Derek O'Brien
Trinamool spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien described the Trinamool's election performance as a "momentous" day for India and West Bengal. "An emotional day after fighting the world's most destructive force, MO-SHA's BJP. Filthy campaign aided by agencies and shameless EC. A momentous day for India and Bengal. It is understandable that we are euphoric but we also know that during #COVID we have to celebrate responsibly," he said.
Bengal election results: "Tigress of Bengal," Sanjay Raut to Mamata Banerjee
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut praised Mamata Banerjee as the "Tigress of Bengal", as her party Trinamool Congress sets to retain power in West Bengal after the bitterly fought assembly election against the main rival BJP. It is "not easy to defeat Banerjee", even though the BJP worked hard and put in a lot of investment during the polls in West Bengal, Mr Raut said. "Congratulations Tigress of Bengal," the Rajya Sabha member tweeted after Ms Banerjee's Trinamool Congress surged way ahead of the BJP in leads.
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut praised Mamata Banerjee as the "Tigress of Bengal", as her party Trinamool Congress sets to retain power in West Bengal after the bitterly fought assembly election against the main rival BJP. It is "not easy to defeat Banerjee", even though the BJP worked hard and put in a lot of investment during the polls in West Bengal, Mr Raut said. "Congratulations Tigress of Bengal," the Rajya Sabha member tweeted after Ms Banerjee's Trinamool Congress surged way ahead of the BJP in leads.
Mamata Banerjee wins in Nandigram: ANI
Mamata Banerjee wins in Nandigram, defeats BJP leader and turncoat Suvendu Adhikari, news agency ANI reported.
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee wins Nandigram constituency by 1200 votes, defeating BJP's Suvendu Adhikari.
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2021
(File photo) pic.twitter.com/kMzRKcmqJH
Bengal election results: Congratulations pour in for Mamata Banerjee
With a Trinamool Congress victory imminent in West Bengal, congratulations poured in for party president and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. "Congratulations @MamataOfficial on your stupendous victory! Let us continue our work towards the welfare of people and tackling the pandemic collectively," NCP's Sharad Pawar tweeted. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in a tweet congratulated the people of the state for being "conscious" and hailed the workers' efforts in defeating BJPs "politics of hate". Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also congratulated Ms Banerjee.
With a Trinamool Congress victory imminent in West Bengal, congratulations poured in for party president and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. "Congratulations @MamataOfficial on your stupendous victory! Let us continue our work towards the welfare of people and tackling the pandemic collectively," NCP's Sharad Pawar tweeted. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in a tweet congratulated the people of the state for being "conscious" and hailed the workers' efforts in defeating BJPs "politics of hate". Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also congratulated Ms Banerjee.
#AssemblyElections2021 | Election trends at 3:50 pm. pic.twitter.com/oN8v8LRB5B
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Trinamool's Manoj Tiwari wins Howrah North seat
Cricketer and Trinamool Congress candidate Manoj Tiwari has won from Howrah North seat.
Cricketer and Trinamool Congress candidate Manoj Tiwari has won from Howrah North seat.
Bengal election results: "Campaign became communal"
"I think the election campaign became so communal and polarised that the people at the end voted to keep that out. So, I think that is where the BJP lost out. As for Mamata Banerjee, the electorate has given her a third consecutive term, and that means that she must do something to address the issue of governance and all other factors involving corrupt practices," author Sabarna Roy told NDTV.
"I think the election campaign became so communal and polarised that the people at the end voted to keep that out. So, I think that is where the BJP lost out. As for Mamata Banerjee, the electorate has given her a third consecutive term, and that means that she must do something to address the issue of governance and all other factors involving corrupt practices," author Sabarna Roy told NDTV.
Bengal election results: "Our approach should be inclusive one," says BJP's Chandra Bose
"We must understand the heritage and culture of Bengal, and I feel we the BJP fell short on that account. We just couldn't influence the intellectual community in Bengal, something that Mamata Banerjee had done to defeat the Left in 2011. I feel that to counter Mamata Banerjee's minority appeasement, we the BJP indulged in polarisation. And while that worked in certain pockets, it didn't work across Bengal. Our approach must be an inclusive one," BJP's Chandra Bose told NDTV.
"We must understand the heritage and culture of Bengal, and I feel we the BJP fell short on that account. We just couldn't influence the intellectual community in Bengal, something that Mamata Banerjee had done to defeat the Left in 2011. I feel that to counter Mamata Banerjee's minority appeasement, we the BJP indulged in polarisation. And while that worked in certain pockets, it didn't work across Bengal. Our approach must be an inclusive one," BJP's Chandra Bose told NDTV.
West Bengal election results: Mamata Banerjee takes slim lead in Nandigram
Mamata Banerjee has taken a slender lead of 1,453 votes in Nandigram in the 13th round of counting. This, after BJP's Suvendu Adhikari was leading as recently in the 11th round by almost 11,000 votes. With 4-5 more rounds of counting to go, the result could go either way.
Mamata Banerjee has taken a slender lead of 1,453 votes in Nandigram in the 13th round of counting. This, after BJP's Suvendu Adhikari was leading as recently in the 11th round by almost 11,000 votes. With 4-5 more rounds of counting to go, the result could go either way.
West Bengal Election trends at 3:06 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/SAdtnYrj0E
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Bengal Election Results 2021: Mamata Banerjee Takes Lead In Nandigram, Ahead By 1,353 Votes
Mamata Banerjee leading in Nandigram by 1,353 votes at the end of 13th round of counting.
Mamata Banerjee leading in Nandigram by 1,353 votes at the end of 13th round of counting.
Bengal Results 2021: "Mamata Banerjee Won Heart Of West Bengal," Tweets HD Kumaraswamy
"Despite the misuse of Central Government machinery and institutes like CBI, Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax department, our beloved leader and @AITCofficial chief Mamata Banerjee has won the heart of West Bengal for the consecutive third time," tweets former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.
"Despite the misuse of Central Government machinery and institutes like CBI, Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax department, our beloved leader and @AITCofficial chief Mamata Banerjee has won the heart of West Bengal for the consecutive third time," tweets former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.
Bengal Election Results: "Emotional Day After Fighting World's Most Destructive Force," Tweets Derek O' Brien
"An emotional day after fighting the world's most destructive force, MO-SHA's BJP. Filthy campaign aided by agencies and shameless Election Commission. A momentous day for India and Bengal. It is understandable that we are euphoric but we also know that during Covid we have to celebrate responsibly," tweets Trinamool's Derek O'Brien.
"An emotional day after fighting the world's most destructive force, MO-SHA's BJP. Filthy campaign aided by agencies and shameless Election Commission. A momentous day for India and Bengal. It is understandable that we are euphoric but we also know that during Covid we have to celebrate responsibly," tweets Trinamool's Derek O'Brien.
Bengal Assembly Election Results: "Asked Workers Not To Celebrate Win," Says Trinamool's Sayan Deb Chatterjee
"We really don't want to celebrate but there was an anti-campaign against TMC. Our workers were under pressure. This mandate has given them energy. Still, we're telling them not to celebrate due to COVID situation: Sayan Deb Chatterjee, State Secretary of Trinamool Youth Congress, reported news agency ANI.
"We really don't want to celebrate but there was an anti-campaign against TMC. Our workers were under pressure. This mandate has given them energy. Still, we're telling them not to celebrate due to COVID situation: Sayan Deb Chatterjee, State Secretary of Trinamool Youth Congress, reported news agency ANI.
We really don't want to celebrate but there was an anti-campaign against TMC. Our workers were under pressure. This mandate has given them energy. Still, we're telling them not to celebrate due to COVID situation: Sayan Deb Chatterjee, State Secy, WB Trinamool Youth Congress pic.twitter.com/EG6of2YTqg
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2021
West Bengal Election trends at 2:46 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/us8LQCxwde
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
West Bengal election results: Prashant Kishor criticises Election Commission
"Despite being on the winning side, I appeal to all political parties that one thing they all must do is approach the Election Commission and protest the manner in which the elections were held. There is a pandemic and millions were exposed to a deadly virus and that is just wrong. Not just that, despite a win I will say that the Election Commission blatantly gave an open hand to BJP to do whatever they want without being penalised. Also the factor of religious polarisation - there was large-scale polarisation across Bengal and the Election Commission, which must ensure that doesn't happen, did nothing about it," political strategist Prashant Kishor told NDTV.
"Despite being on the winning side, I appeal to all political parties that one thing they all must do is approach the Election Commission and protest the manner in which the elections were held. There is a pandemic and millions were exposed to a deadly virus and that is just wrong. Not just that, despite a win I will say that the Election Commission blatantly gave an open hand to BJP to do whatever they want without being penalised. Also the factor of religious polarisation - there was large-scale polarisation across Bengal and the Election Commission, which must ensure that doesn't happen, did nothing about it," political strategist Prashant Kishor told NDTV.
#NDTVExclusive | "BJP's poll campaign was in the name of religion and religious symbols": @PrashantKishor, Poll Strategist, on BJP's polarising campaign during #WestBengalPolls pic.twitter.com/UC0RdtpFAL
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
West Bengal election results: "We fought hard," Prashant Kishor tells NDTV
"We have been quite confident all along. All the BJP was doing throughout was run this massive propaganda that BJP is about to win. But we fought hard. The numbers may not seem like it is a close contest, but in reality it was. Numbers don't reflect the true fight on ground. The BJP has fought hard and like I said before, that they are definitely a formidable force here in Bengal," election strategist Prashant Kishor told NDTV.
West Bengal Election trends at 2:05 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/hvKeym2yUD
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
#Blog: Bengal Sends PM Modi A Huge Wake Up Call - by Aunindyo Chakravarty (@AunindyoC) https://t.co/kyjya0sP3R pic.twitter.com/sX0a88Ja5m
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
West Bengal election results: No celebrations amid Covid
The police has told Trinamool supporters to stop celebrations in Bengal's Asansol. The Election Commission has asked states to "prohibit victory celebrations urgently" and to suspend officers if people gather in large numbers at areas under their watch.
#WATCH | A police personnel instructs TMC supporters to stop celebrations in Asansol
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2021
EC asks States/UTs to "prohibit victory celebrations urgently", also directs that responsible SHOs/officers must be suspended immediately and criminal& disciplinary actions must be initiated pic.twitter.com/QUuVO3CrzV
West Bengal election results: Wait for final results, says BJP's Dilip Ghosh
"Nothing has happened, we are in contest and the final result is awaited. There has been a swing away from us in many seats whilst counting is on... but you must see that there are many seats where BJP is trailing only by a very slender margin and so it may swing in our favour in the next few hours. Also, you must keep in mind that the counting of votes due to the pandemic is much slower than usual. So, there are many rounds of counting remaining and the leads as they stand may very well change," BJP's Dilip Ghosh told NDTV.
Election results 2021: Prashant Kishor's old tweet on Bengal trending
Prashant Kishor's tweet way back in December flooded Twitter timelines today as the Trinamool Congress of Mamata Banerjee raced to a massive tally in Bengal today, beating the BJP in a nerve-wracking battle that started years ago. Prashant Kishor had posted a big "save-this-tweet" dare to the BJP on December 21. The ruling party would "struggle to cross double digits" in the 294-member assembly, the poll strategist had said, vowing to quit Twitter if his prediction did not come true.
For all the hype AMPLIFIED by a section of supportive media, in reality BJP will struggle to CROSS DOUBLE DIGITS in #WestBengal
- Prashant Kishor (@PrashantKishor) December 21, 2020
PS: Please save this tweet and if BJP does any better I must quit this space!
#ElectionResults2021 | Forecast from the NDTV Election Desk, based on current trends
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
More here: https://t.co/ddgRzerBUQ pic.twitter.com/ou3PV9gHWs
West Bengal Election trends at 1:45 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/IpZijIn8cX
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Election results: Arvind Kejriwal congratulates Mamata Banerjee
"Congratulations @MamataOfficial didi for landslide victory. What a fight! Congratulations to the people of WB," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted.
"Congratulations @MamataOfficial didi for landslide victory. What a fight! Congratulations to the people of WB," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted.
Election results 2021: Mamata Banerjee to be Chief Minister for 3rd time, says Trinamool leader
"I was always telling the press that Mamata Banerjee will be Chief Minister for the third time. BJP tried their best to crack but they didn't succeed. The Left has now vanished from West Bengal due to their wrong policy of taking a communal force against a communal force," Trinamool leader Firhad Hakim told news agency ANI.
Bengal election results: The big fight in Nandigram
NDTV's Monideepa Banerjie reports: "(BJP's) Suvendu Adhikari was leading in around 7,000 votes against Mamata Banerjee. Then Mr Adhikari left his house to travel to the counting station, but on the way the margin of his lead dipped. Last I heard the current lead is around 3,000 votes. So, Mamata Banerjee has pulled back the margin somewhat, but it is still a cause of concern for her. However, counting is happening in Nandigram block-1, where there is a mixed population of all communities. Trinamool sources said when counting happens in Nandigram block-2, which is dominated by the minority community, Ms Banerjee will go past Mr Adhikari."
#WestBengalPolls | Arati Jerath, Senior Journalist, on TMC's spectacular performance in this election pic.twitter.com/678Id9Q4ZC
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
#ElectionResult2021 | TMC's Madan Mitra is leading from Kamarhati constituency #WestBengalElections2021
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Updates here: https://t.co/0CnuNeicvc pic.twitter.com/8f72LLJmjS
West Bengal election: "3 things worked for Mamata Banerjee," says expert
"Three things have worked for Mamata Banerjee - 1. Playing the underdog. It has worked in the past for Indira Gandhi and more recently Arvind Kejriwal... now it has worked for Mamata Banerjee, who was seen in a wheelchair, being targeted by big leaders day and night. The underdog has given a stupendous performance. 2. The second thing that has worked for Mamata Banerjee is the consolidation of the minority votes. The BJP went so strongly with its Hindutva that the anxious minority community came together. That is something BJP must learn about states with a large minority population - that it must not go so strong with Hindutva. That being said, the Congress has been completely decimated in Bengal with Mamata Banerjee walking away with the complete minority vote. And 3. COVID-19 surge went against the BJP. The last three phases of election saw a huge Covid factor playing against the BJP, and Mamata Banerjee capitalised on it. If you see the last three phases of elections, the BJP's performance completely dropped," political commentator Arati Jerath told NDTV.
"Three things have worked for Mamata Banerjee - 1. Playing the underdog. It has worked in the past for Indira Gandhi and more recently Arvind Kejriwal... now it has worked for Mamata Banerjee, who was seen in a wheelchair, being targeted by big leaders day and night. The underdog has given a stupendous performance. 2. The second thing that has worked for Mamata Banerjee is the consolidation of the minority votes. The BJP went so strongly with its Hindutva that the anxious minority community came together. That is something BJP must learn about states with a large minority population - that it must not go so strong with Hindutva. That being said, the Congress has been completely decimated in Bengal with Mamata Banerjee walking away with the complete minority vote. And 3. COVID-19 surge went against the BJP. The last three phases of election saw a huge Covid factor playing against the BJP, and Mamata Banerjee capitalised on it. If you see the last three phases of elections, the BJP's performance completely dropped," political commentator Arati Jerath told NDTV.
Election results: Over 70 letters to Election Commission, says Trinamool
"We have a bone to pick with the Election Commission. More than 70 letters were written to the Election Commission by Trinamool MPs and more than 5,000 letters were written by leaders, but we managed to get only three replies from them," the Trinamool's Riju Datta told NDTV.
"We have a bone to pick with the Election Commission. More than 70 letters were written to the Election Commission by Trinamool MPs and more than 5,000 letters were written by leaders, but we managed to get only three replies from them," the Trinamool's Riju Datta told NDTV.
West Bengal Election trends at 1:04 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/JLeIaPkvCY
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Election results 2021: Expert view
"I agree with N Ram, that Mamata Banerjee must focus on her governance. Bengal was a poorly governed state and had lot of issues like that of corruption and cut money. So, despite a win, the Trinamool must focus on improving Bengal. That being said, the BJP will surely hold them to task because the BJP is a formidable opposition wherever it is," political commentator Arati Jerath told NDTV.
"I agree with N Ram, that Mamata Banerjee must focus on her governance. Bengal was a poorly governed state and had lot of issues like that of corruption and cut money. So, despite a win, the Trinamool must focus on improving Bengal. That being said, the BJP will surely hold them to task because the BJP is a formidable opposition wherever it is," political commentator Arati Jerath told NDTV.
#ElectionResult | TMC supporters celebrate at Kalighat, Kolkata as party leads on 202 seats as per official trends #WestBengalElections2021
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
More here: https://t.co/hbecv6BH56 pic.twitter.com/JHYLbxRfYv
West Bengal election results: Expert view
"Mamata Banerjee, however, must focus on her governance from here on. There was a lot of discontent among the people of Bengal. In fact, in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the electorate of the Left completely gravitated to the BJP as they preferred even the BJP to that of Mamata Banerjee," The Hindu's N Ram told NDTV.
Bengal election results: Expert view
"The momentum is in favour of the Trinamool. It has been observed in almost all elections that towards the latter rounds of counting, the bump is in favour of the party which has the leads or momentum. And so, Mamata Banerjee could very well go past the 211-mark of 2016," NDTV editorial advisor Dorab Sopariwala said.
#ElectionResults | Dorab Sopariwala, Editorial Advisor, NDTV, on TMC crossing 200 mark#WestBengalPolls pic.twitter.com/VfBKIkA6PE
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Election results: Trinamool supporters celebrate
Trinamool Congress supporters celebrate at Kalighat in Kolkata as the party leads in over 200 seats, according to latest trends.
West Bengal Election trends at 12:24 pm. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/LC22BzXFFO
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Bengal election results: What the forecast says
The Trinamool is likely to settle with a number between 205 and 215, while the BJP may get 75 to 85.
The Trinamool is likely to settle with a number between 205 and 215, while the BJP may get 75 to 85.
West Bengal election results: What the trends mean
The result will decide whether Mamata Banerjee, who has been in power for 10 years and is fighting the toughest election of her political career, has been able to thwart the challenge by the battle-hardened election army of the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
The result will decide whether Mamata Banerjee, who has been in power for 10 years and is fighting the toughest election of her political career, has been able to thwart the challenge by the battle-hardened election army of the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
#ElectionResults | A look at how key candidates are faring in their constituencies in Bengal
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
LIVE: https://t.co/LpfcFgEPtg#WestBengalElections2021 pic.twitter.com/kgHMD4rT8A
West Bengal Election trends at 11:32 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/cFppAfktRk
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
#ElectionResults | Early forecast at this time (11 am) from NDTV Election Desk. West Bengal - Trinamool+ poised for 180 seats vs BJP 75 seats (if current trends continue)#WestBengalElections2021
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
BJP's test in Malda and Murshidabad
The districts of Malda and Murshidabad, where Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had campaigned extensively, seem not to be working well for the BJP. The Trinamool Congress is keeping a close eye on this fact. In the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BJP had made inroads in these districts, and they were quite confident of doing well in these districts, but that does not seem to be the case. But these districts are mainly minority dominated and so the BJP was never really confident about it. The BJP, however, wanted to capitalise on the inroads made by it during the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and that is something that Trinamool is looking at closely.
West Bengal Election trends at 10:51 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/dvSNKzrpXh
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
"BJP certainly made inroads in Bengal"
"Irrespective of the final result in Bengal, whether they emerge victorious or not, one thing is certain, that the BJP has successfully made massive inroads in Bengal - something that they had long aspired. It is not just about the political battle, but about taking the party ideology forward too for the party and its cadre," political analyst Badri Narayan told NDTV.
"Irrespective of the final result in Bengal, whether they emerge victorious or not, one thing is certain, that the BJP has successfully made massive inroads in Bengal - something that they had long aspired. It is not just about the political battle, but about taking the party ideology forward too for the party and its cadre," political analyst Badri Narayan told NDTV.
"Too early to say anything": BJP
"It's too early to say anything because there are so many rounds (of counting). The situation will be clear only by evening. We had started from 3 and were challenged that we won't get even 100, we have crossed that mark. We will cross the magic number too," BJP's Kailash Vijayvargiya told news agency ANI.
West Bengal Election trends at 10:35 am. https://t.co/QZmvOvcfGE #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/j3ZBav8KDE
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Trinamool crosses halfway mark in latest trends
Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress has crossed the halfway mark of 147 seats in West Bengal in latest trends. The party is leading in 150 seats, while its main rival BJP is leading in 123 seats.
Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram
Trinamool's Mamata Banerjee is trailing BJP's Suvendu Adhikari by around 7,000 votes. She was trailing in postal ballots by around 1,500 votes and now with EVMs being counted too, Mr Adhikari's lead has grown to around 7,000 votes. However, this is the counting from Nandigram-1 - where the minority community votes are not a factor. Nandigram-2 is where the minority community plays a big factor and that is where Ms Banerjee looks to gain most from.
Trinamool's Mamata Banerjee is trailing BJP's Suvendu Adhikari by around 7,000 votes. She was trailing in postal ballots by around 1,500 votes and now with EVMs being counted too, Mr Adhikari's lead has grown to around 7,000 votes. However, this is the counting from Nandigram-1 - where the minority community votes are not a factor. Nandigram-2 is where the minority community plays a big factor and that is where Ms Banerjee looks to gain most from.
BJP's Suvendu Adhikari leading in Nandigram
BJP's Suvendu Adhikari is leading in Nandigram with 7,287 votes, while his Trinamool rival Mamata Banerjee is trailing with 5,790 votes.
BJP's Suvendu Adhikari is leading in Nandigram with 7,287 votes, while his Trinamool rival Mamata Banerjee is trailing with 5,790 votes.
West Bengal Election trends at 9:43 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/Fk6hGmAoCg
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Where the Left stands in early trends
"It is premature to say that the Left is completely out in Bengal as these are still very early leads. But that being said, yes, there was a large amount of polarisation between the two political forces of Trinamool Congress and BJP in Bengal," CPI(M) leader Tikender Singh Panwar told NDTV.
"It is premature to say that the Left is completely out in Bengal as these are still very early leads. But that being said, yes, there was a large amount of polarisation between the two political forces of Trinamool Congress and BJP in Bengal," CPI(M) leader Tikender Singh Panwar told NDTV.
Trinamool still maintains lead
The Trinamool is ahead in latest trends with 115 seats, while the BJP is leading in 107 as at 9:38 am.
The Trinamool is ahead in latest trends with 115 seats, while the BJP is leading in 107 as at 9:38 am.
Close fight between Trinamool and BJP
The Trinamool and challenger BJP are locked in a neck and neck contest in West Bengal as counting of ballots is underway, with the ruling party having a slight edge. The Trinamool is ahead in latest leads with 97 seats, while the BJP is leading in 94 as at 9:28 am.
The Trinamool and challenger BJP are locked in a neck and neck contest in West Bengal as counting of ballots is underway, with the ruling party having a slight edge. The Trinamool is ahead in latest leads with 97 seats, while the BJP is leading in 94 as at 9:28 am.
West Bengal Election trends at 9:11 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/yzl1ylTu4M
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Trinamool maintains lead
The Trinamool is ahead in latest leads with 83 seats, while the BJP is leading in 79 as at 9:10 am.
The Trinamool is ahead in latest leads with 83 seats, while the BJP is leading in 79 as at 9:10 am.
West Bengal Election trends at 8:55 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/szfq6S0oRl
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
Mamata Banerjee tweets
Even as counting is going on, Mamata Banerjee tweeted a tribute to filmmaker Satyajit Ray. "Maharaja Tomare Selam... Tribute to Satyajit Ray, legendary filmmaker, writer, composer, lyricist, illustrator, on his birth centenary. He is not only the pride of Bengal but also India & the whole world. He is an inspiration to people around the globe. #SatyajitRay100," Ms Banerjee tweeted.
Even as counting is going on, Mamata Banerjee tweeted a tribute to filmmaker Satyajit Ray. "Maharaja Tomare Selam... Tribute to Satyajit Ray, legendary filmmaker, writer, composer, lyricist, illustrator, on his birth centenary. He is not only the pride of Bengal but also India & the whole world. He is an inspiration to people around the globe. #SatyajitRay100," Ms Banerjee tweeted.
What experts are saying about latest leads
According to these very early leads, Mamata Banerjee is seen to be losing in two of her strongholds, including that of West Kolkata. "And forget 2016, but actually going down from the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, is a big cause of concern for the Trinamool," Dorab R Sopariwala told NDTV.
According to these very early leads, Mamata Banerjee is seen to be losing in two of her strongholds, including that of West Kolkata. "And forget 2016, but actually going down from the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, is a big cause of concern for the Trinamool," Dorab R Sopariwala told NDTV.
Trinamool inches ahead
The Trinamool is marginally ahead in latest leads with 49 seats, while the BJP is leading in 46 as at 8:49 am.
The Trinamool is marginally ahead in latest leads with 49 seats, while the BJP is leading in 46 as at 8:49 am.
Super close fight in Bengal
The BJP continues to maintain an edge in Bengal. Latest leads show BJP is leading in 41 seats while Trinamool is leading in 39 as at 8:39 am.
The BJP continues to maintain an edge in Bengal. Latest leads show BJP is leading in 41 seats while Trinamool is leading in 39 as at 8:39 am.
West Bengal Election trends at 8:35 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/hF12lVFymZ
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
BJP maintains edge in latest leads
The BJP continues to maintain an edge in Bengal. Latest leads show BJP is leading in 32 seats while Trinamool is leading in 25 as at 8:29 am.
The BJP continues to maintain an edge in Bengal. Latest leads show BJP is leading in 32 seats while Trinamool is leading in 25 as at 8:29 am.
West Bengal Election trends at 8:25 am. https://t.co/QZmvOuUEi4 #AssemblyElections2021 pic.twitter.com/ApkBixpcaf
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2021
BJP ahead in latest leads
The BJP is leading in 23 seats while the Trinamool is leading in 18 as at 8:25 am.
The BJP is leading in 23 seats while the Trinamool is leading in 18 as at 8:25 am.
Trinamool ahead in latest leads
The Trinamool is leading in 15 seats while the BJP is leading in 11 as at 8:19 am.
The Trinamool is leading in 15 seats while the BJP is leading in 11 as at 8:19 am.
Latest leads are in
The BJP is ahead in 4 seats while Trinamool Congress is leading in 3 as at 8:13 am.
The BJP is ahead in 4 seats while Trinamool Congress is leading in 3 as at 8:13 am.
Very early leads from Bengal shows gain for BJP
Very early first lead from West Bengal shows a gain for BJP.
Very early first lead from West Bengal shows a gain for BJP.
Election results under shadow of Covid
The election results are seen as an early test of the impact the devastating second wave of the pandemic is having on support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP. Counting of votes in West Bengal will begin shortly. The second wave has overwhelmed hospitals, morgues and crematoriums and left families scrambling for scarce medicines and oxygen.
The election results are seen as an early test of the impact the devastating second wave of the pandemic is having on support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP. Counting of votes in West Bengal will begin shortly. The second wave has overwhelmed hospitals, morgues and crematoriums and left families scrambling for scarce medicines and oxygen.
And while India is the world's biggest producer of COVID-19 vaccines, shortages of the shots in some states have hindered the start of a mass vaccination drive.
Counting to begin shortly
Counting of votes for the West Bengal assembly election 2021 will begin shortly. Officials outside a counting centre at St Thomas Boys' School in Kolkata.
Counting of votes in Siliguri
Officials, counting agents and security forces arrive at a counting centre at Siliguri College in West Bengal. Counting of votes for assembly elections 2021 will begin shortly.
Postal ballots arrive
Postal ballots have arrived in David Hare Campus, Ballygunge for the constituency. It is a prestige seat for the Trinamool Congress. Senior Trinamool Congress leader Subrata Mukherjee, a close aide of Mamata Banerjee, is the candidate from here.
Bengal's single-day Covid fatalities cross 100-mark
West Bengal on Saturday reported the highest one-day COVID-19 deaths with 103 people succumbing to the infection, the health department said in a bulletin a day before counting of votes in the assembly election.
The state's coronavirus death toll is 11,447 now. The tally also rose to 8,45,878 as a record single-day spike of 17,512 cases was registered.
Will BJP take Bengal?
The BJP, which had just three seats in the 294-member assembly after the polls and went to win 18 out of 42 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, had pulled out all the stops in the West Bengal in a determined bid to oust Mamata Banerjee, a vocal critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and add another state to its tally of 17. The Left-Congress alliance is the third main contestant in the state.
The BJP, which had just three seats in the 294-member assembly after the polls and went to win 18 out of 42 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, had pulled out all the stops in the West Bengal in a determined bid to oust Mamata Banerjee, a vocal critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and add another state to its tally of 17. The Left-Congress alliance is the third main contestant in the state.
Mamata Banerjee vs BJP
The result will decide whether Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has been in power for 10 years and is arguably fighting the toughest election of her political career, has been able to thwart the challenge by the battle-hardened election army of the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
The result will decide whether Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has been in power for 10 years and is arguably fighting the toughest election of her political career, has been able to thwart the challenge by the battle-hardened election army of the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
3-tier security
A three-tier security arrangement is in place in West Bengal's counting centres and 256 companies of central forces deployed across 23 districts of the state that voted in a gruelling election marred by violence and vicious personal attacks.
A three-tier security arrangement is in place in West Bengal's counting centres and 256 companies of central forces deployed across 23 districts of the state that voted in a gruelling election marred by violence and vicious personal attacks.
