West Bengal Assembly Elections: BJP Takes Early Lead Amidst Tight Race

As the counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections begins, early trends suggest a slight lead for the BJP over the TMC. With the Election Commission yet to release official figures, various news channels report differing leads for both parties. This election is crucial for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as she seeks a fourth term amidst strong competition from the BJP. The results will also indicate the BJP's potential growth in eastern India. Stay tuned for more updates as counting continues throughout the day.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 4, 2026, 08:30 IST

Vote Counting Begins in West Bengal

Kolkata: As the counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections commenced on Monday, early reports from various television channels suggested that the opposition BJP was slightly ahead.

The Election Commission has not yet released any official results.

TV 9 Bangla reported that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was leading in approximately 11 seats, while the BJP was ahead in 14.

Zee News indicated that the TMC was leading in 18 seats compared to the BJP's 21.

Republic Bangla's figures showed the TMC leading in 4 seats, with the BJP ahead in 19.

Vote counting for the state's 293 Assembly constituencies started at 8 am, with postal ballots being counted first as per Election Commission guidelines.

Officials confirmed that the counting of EVM votes also began at 8 am.

This high-stakes election is viewed as a significant challenge for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is seeking a fourth consecutive term against a strong BJP opposition.

The CPI(M)-led Left Front and Congress are also aiming to increase their presence after facing previous electoral defeats.

Political analysts suggest that the results will serve as an indicator of the BJP's potential to grow its influence in eastern India, while a robust performance by the TMC would solidify its stronghold in the region.

Counting is anticipated to proceed throughout the day, with more definitive trends expected to surface by the afternoon.