The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a decisive victory in the West Bengal Assembly elections on Monday, crossing the halfway mark of seats [1].
This result represents a significant political shift in the eastern state, ending the long-standing dominance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The outcome marks a breakthrough for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party in a region that has historically resisted BJP control.
According to live counting data, the BJP crossed the halfway mark of the assembly by securing 147 seats [1]. Reports on the total lead varied among sources, with India Today stating the party led in over 170 seats [1], while Times Now reported a lead in 185 seats [3]. Other reports indicated the party had crossed 200 seats [4].
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the results, saying, "Lotus has bloomed," and adding that the moment "will be remembered forever" [0, 2].
Amit Shah said the BJP, which has long set its sights on Bengal, appears to be on track for a breakthrough in what could mark a major political shift in the eastern state [1].
Of the 294 total seats in the West Bengal Assembly, 293 were counted on Monday [5]. One seat remains undecided due to a scheduled repoll in the Falta constituency on May 21, 2026 [5]. The counting process included high-profile constituencies such as Bhabanipur and Asansol Dakshin.
The shift in voter preference suggests a move away from the TMC's platform toward the BJP's national agenda. The party's ability to secure a majority in the assembly allows it to form a government without relying on coalition partners in the state.
“"Lotus has bloomed,"”
The BJP's victory in West Bengal dismantles a critical stronghold of the Trinamool Congress and expands the party's footprint in eastern India. By securing a majority in the assembly, the BJP has successfully transitioned from an opposition force to the ruling power in a state known for its complex political landscape, potentially altering the regional balance of power for years to come.
