West Bengal heads into verdict day today (May 4, 2026) after over a month of frenzied campaigning. The election results will determine whether Mamata Banerjee can secure a fourth consecutive term or if the BJP will finally break through in West Bengal.
The West Bengal Assembly elections took place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, 2026. Voter turnout reached remarkable levels, with 92.8% in the first phase and 91.47% in the second phase, marking the highest turnout since Independence. Both camps claim this record turnout as a mandate in their favour.
However, a shadow looms over the election due to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which resulted in around 91 lakh voters—approximately 12% of the electorate—being removed ahead of the elections.
The counting process is set to unfold under strict scrutiny. The Election Commission of India appointed 165 additional counting observers and 77 police observers to ensure transparency during this critical phase.
The magic number for securing a majority in the 294-member Assembly stands at 148. Mamata Banerjee is not just fighting for her political life; she is also battling against significant opposition from Suvendu Adhikari and the Bharatiya Janata Party, who are eager to capitalize on any misstep.
The CPI(M) and Congress hope to reclaim a foothold after five years of being sidelined following their wipeout in the 2021 polls. Whatever verdict emerges today, its implications are expected to travel well beyond the corridors of Nabanna and into the national political landscape.
Repolling for the Falta Assembly seat has already been scheduled for May 21, 2026, due to electoral malpractices. This only adds to the complexities surrounding today’s results.
No result today will escape the controversy surrounding the electoral rolls. As officials prepare for an intense day of counting, all eyes are on West Bengal.
