West Bengal heads into verdict day today (May 4, 2026) after over a month of frenzied campaigning. The election results will determine whether Mamata Banerjee can secure a fourth consecutive term or if the Bharatiya Janata Party will finally break through in West Bengal.
The state saw its assembly elections held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with voters turning out in record numbers. The counting of votes for all 293 Assembly seats is set to begin today, and anticipation hangs thick in the air.
Voter turnout statistics:
- The first phase recorded a turnout of 92.8%.
- The second phase followed closely with 91.47%.
- This turnout marks the highest since Independence.
But not all is smooth sailing. Around 91 lakh voters—approximately 12% of the electorate—were removed from the rolls ahead of the elections due to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). This has cast a shadow over the integrity of the electoral process.
Both camps claim that this record turnout is a mandate in their favor. The Trinamool Congress hopes to maintain its grip on power, while the BJP aims to capitalize on any discontent among voters.
Key figures:
- Mamata Banerjee seeks her fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister.
- The magic number for a majority in the 294-member Assembly is 148.
- 165 additional counting observers and 77 police observers have been appointed to ensure transparency during the counting process.
The implications of today’s verdict extend beyond West Bengal’s borders. Whatever verdict emerges today, its implications are expected to travel well beyond the corridors of Nabanna and into the national political landscape. As tensions rise, all eyes are on West Bengal—where every vote counts and every decision could alter political alliances across India.
Repolling for the Falta Assembly seat is scheduled for May 21, due to reported electoral malpractices. This highlights ongoing concerns about electoral integrity even as results unfold today.
