Exit polls forecast a lead for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the West Bengal Assembly election following the conclusion of voting.

These projections are significant because they suggest a possible end to the tenure of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. A shift in power in West Bengal would mark a major political realignment in one of India's most populous states.

Voting for the 294 [1] seat Legislative Assembly ended during the second and final phase at 6:00 PM on 29 April 2026 [4]. Per regulations, media houses may broadcast these predictions only 30 minutes [5] after the voting concludes.

Data from the projections are contradictory. Some forecasts, including those reported by News24online, project the BJP will win between 150 and 175 seats [2]. This would provide the party with a clear majority in the house. However, other reports, such as those from the Times of India, predict a hung assembly where no single party secures a clear majority.

The TMC has dismissed these projections, describing them as a bluff. Party representatives said the polls are unreliable and urged voters to wait for the official count.

The final election results are scheduled for 4 May 2026 [3]. Until that time, the conflicting data from different pollsters leave the actual outcome of the 294 [1] seat assembly uncertain.

“Exit polls forecast a lead for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the West Bengal Assembly election”

The disparity between the exit polls, ranging from a decisive BJP majority to a hung assembly, indicates a highly volatile electorate. If the BJP secures the projected 150 to 175 seats, it would represent a historic defeat for the TMC. Conversely, a hung assembly would necessitate coalition building, potentially prolonging the political instability in the region before a government is formed.