Modi Claims Big Win in West Bengal State Polls

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed a major electoral victory in West Bengal, as early results and trends showed his party securing a strong lead in the opposition-held state.

According to data from the Election Commission of India, the Bharatiya Janata Party was leading in 156 of the 293 seats and had already won 48, marking a significant breakthrough in a state where it had never formed a government before.

Votes were still being counted under tight security in West Bengal, one of several regions that went to the polls in April and May.

Calling it a historic moment, Modi said the outcome reflected public support for his party’s governance agenda and the efforts of its grassroots workers over the years.

Supporters celebrated in Kolkata as the results pointed to a decisive shift in the state’s political landscape. The BJP had mounted an aggressive campaign to challenge the long-standing dominance of Mamata Banerjee, whose party has governed the state since 2011.

The elections were not without tension, as clashes were reported near some counting centres, prompting police intervention to maintain order.

In other key results, M. K. Stalin suffered a setback in Tamil Nadu, where his party lagged behind a new political force led by actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay.

Meanwhile, the Congress-led alliance secured a victory in Kerala, with Rahul Gandhi thanking voters for what he described as a decisive mandate.

The BJP also retained power in Assam for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and remained part of the ruling coalition in Puducherry.

The results are expected to strengthen Modi’s political position ahead of future national elections, even as India faces ongoing economic and diplomatic challenges.