Mamata Banerjee rejects exit polls, claims TMC will cross 226 seats in West Bengal, alleges media manipulation and urges vigilance during vote counting.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleges manipulation of media narratives, urges party workers to stay vigilant during vote counting
Qalam Times News Network
Kolkata | April 30, 2026
Mamata Banerjee has strongly dismissed the credibility of recent exit polls following the second phase of voting in West Bengal, asserting that her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), is poised to secure more than 226 seats in the 294-member Assembly .In a video message shared on Thursday, she accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of influencing media houses through financial pressure to broadcast misleading projections.
Speaking directly to the people of the state, Mamata expressed gratitude to voters and party workers who, despite harsh conditions and alleged intimidation, turned out in large numbers to cast their votes. She maintained that the public mandate is firmly in favor of her party and dismissed the exit poll figures as a “planned narrative” designed to weaken morale.
She further claimed that a directive was circulated from BJP offices instructing media outlets to display specific exit poll outcomes. According to her, this was part of a broader strategy to psychologically influence both voters and market sentiments. She added that the actual results would contradict these projections and could even impact financial markets once revealed.
Banerjee also raised serious concerns about the conduct of central forces and certain sections of the police during the election process. She alleged that her party workers faced targeted violence and harassment in multiple constituencies, including Bhatpara, Noapara, and Jagaddal. She cited incidents where individuals were reportedly assaulted, and even mentioned a death related to polling day tensions, expressing condolences to the affected family.
Calling the exit polls a “conspiracy,” she warned that attempts could be made to tamper with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during transportation and counting. She instructed her party candidates and agents to remain present at counting centers at all times and to ensure that no unauthorized changes occur. She emphasized discipline and vigilance, urging workers not to leave their positions unattended.
Banerjee also criticized the role of central agencies, alleging misuse of power to intimidate opposition voices. She accused the central leadership of interfering in the state’s democratic process and questioned their understanding of Bengal’s socio-political fabric.
Despite her allegations, she appealed to her supporters to remain calm and avoid any form of retaliation, even if provoked. She assured that any wrongdoing would be addressed through legal and administrative channels. Ending her message on a confident note, she declared that she is “100 percent certain” of victory and called upon all party candidates to stay actively involved until the final results are announced.
