Vote counting begins in Indian state elections with focus on West Bengal

Vote counting in elections across five Indian states and territories began on Monday under tight security, with major attention focused on West Bengal, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party is aiming for a significant political breakthrough.

The elections, held during April and May, are seen as a key test for Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is looking to expand its influence in opposition-controlled regions ahead of future national political battles.

In West Bengal, the BJP launched an aggressive campaign to unseat Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which has governed the state since 2011. The politically crucial state, home to nearly 100 million people, has become the centre of national attention due to its strategic importance.

Exit polls released last week suggested the BJP may have a narrow advantage over TMC, though exit polls in India have often delivered mixed results. Political analysts believe the outcome in West Bengal could reshape the balance of power in Indian politics.

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The election campaign was also marked by controversy after millions of names were removed from voter rolls in a move officials described as an effort to eliminate ineligible voters. Critics, however, argued the removals disproportionately affected minority and marginalised communities.

Ahead of the counting, Banerjee remained confident of victory, dismissing BJP’s chances of taking power in the state. Meanwhile, West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya said voters were seeking change and predicted a defeat for the ruling TMC.

In southern Tamil Nadu, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam is widely expected to retain power, while BJP is also projected to hold on to Assam. In Kerala, exit polls suggest the Congress-led alliance may unseat the Communist government.

Analysts say victories in these state elections would strengthen Modi politically as he faces economic challenges, unemployment concerns, and pending international trade negotiations.