KOLKATA: Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared on Friday that the inaugural phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections demonstrated a remarkable voter turnout, indicating a strong public desire for political change. Addressing the media, Shah confidently stated that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to secure over 110 of the 152 contested seats.

Shah affirmed that if the BJP forms the government, a Bengal-born, Bengali-speaking leader would be positioned as chief minister. With an eye on the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), he suggested their governance is nearing an “imminent exit,” projecting an absolute majority for the BJP in this crucial poll.

He expressed gratitude toward the Election Commission of India and security forces, highlighting the peaceful nature of the polling process, with fewer than 30 injuries reported compared to previous years, which saw significant violence. "In 2016, over 1,200 injuries were reported, and more than 1,600 in 2021. This time, the numbers are drastically better," he noted.

Shah elaborated on BJP's prospects beyond West Bengal, stating that by May 5, the party expects to influence regions encompassing modern-day Assam, West Bengal, and Odisha, referring to them as “Anga, Banga, and Kalinga.” With aspirations to unseat the TMC, which has held power for 15 years, Shah promised effective governance emphasizing women's safety and economic reforms to entice investors.

The outcome of these elections could reshape the political landscape of Bengal and potentially usher in a new era of governance in West Bengal, promising significant implications for both the region and national politics in India.