West Bengal’s assembly polls kicked off with a bang as the first phase logged a staggering 90% voter turnout, fueling Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s assertion that her Trinamool Congress has already clinched victory.
From the heart of Kolkata at a vibrant election rally in Bojbazar, Banerjee captivated the crowd. ‘Based on the pulse of the people and today’s massive voting, we’re in a position to win outright,’ the firebrand leader stated on Thursday.
She framed the polls as a pivotal struggle. ‘Do you know why such high numbers voted? This election defends the rights of ordinary citizens,’ Banerjee explained, linking the turnout directly to public resolve.
Taking aim at the BJP, she highlighted fears over CAA and NRC implementation under a potential BJP government. ‘People flooded the booths to protect themselves from these threats,’ she charged, rallying supporters against what she called an existential risk to Bengal’s social fabric.
Polling across 152 constituencies wrapped with 89.93% participation by evening. The subsequent phase is set for April 29, culminating in counting on May 4.
Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh, contesting from Beleghata, dismissed BJP’s spin on the turnout. ‘This isn’t a vote for change; it’s solid backing for Mamata’s rule. TMC is geared for a minimum 125 seats from phase one, possibly up to 134,’ he projected confidently.
Banerjee’s rally cry was unambiguous: ‘My only goal is dismantling the BJP government in Delhi.’ With such bold predictions post-phase one, TMC positions itself as the frontrunner in Bengal’s high-octane electoral showdown, where every vote counts in shaping the state’s future leadership.
