By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR:BJP will form the government in West Bengal, ending TMC’s 15-year rule.BJP won 207 seats out of 294 (clear majority, well above 148). TMC secured around 80-81 seats. A few seats went to Congress, CPI(M), and others. One repoll is scheduled later.
Mamata Banerjee lost her Bhabanipur seat to Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) by a significant margin.
Mamata has refused to resign, calling the verdict a “conspiracy,” “stolen election,” and alleging EVM/voter list manipulation, violence, and EC bias. She claims a “moral victory” and says she won’t go to Raj Bhavan.
The new BJP-led government is expected to be sworn in on May 9, 2026 (Rabindra Jayanti). Suvendu Adhikari is a strong frontrunner for Chief Minister.
The Governor RN Ravi can invite the party with majority support (BJP) to form the government. If Mamata does not resign, the Governor has the constitutional power to withdraw “pleasure” under Article 164 and dismiss the current ministry. The outgoing CM/government may function in a caretaker capacity briefly until the new team takes oath.
No need for floor test immediately if the majority is clear, but conventions expect smooth transition.
TMC may file election petitions in the Calcutta High Court (and potentially appeal to Supreme Court) for recounts or to set aside results in specific seats, citing irregularities.
As discussed earlier, mass recount or statewide reversal is highly unlikely without strong, booth-specific evidence. Courts maintain a high bar for such relief.
Supreme Court has largely backed ECI processes in pre-poll matters; post-poll violence pleas have been directed to High Court.
Reports of clashes, arson, and vandalism have emerged. Extra security measures are likely in sensitive areas.
Mamata/TMC may shift to aggressive opposition mode, protests, and strengthening the INDIA bloc nationally.
BJP will focus on stabilizing the state, implementing its agenda (development, law & order, addressing past issues like Sandeshkhali, etc.).
Governing a polarized state with strong regional identity, managing opposition from TMC (still a significant force), and delivering on promises amid expectations.
Rebuilding after a heavy defeat, with Mamata likely playing a more national role in opposition unity. The Assembly’s term has ended or is ending naturally, so the new government will have a full five-year mandate.
Despite the current standoff and allegations, constitutional processes favor a smooth transition to a BJP government within days. Dramatic reversals via recounts or courts are improbable in the near term. The focus is now on government formation, managing any unrest, and legal battles in specific constituencies. Developments could evolve quickly depending on the Governor’s actions and TMC’s next moves.
