Shah said that the BJP was all set to win 110 of the 152 seats that went to the polls in the first phase. Photo: @BJP4India
Amit Shah predicts BJP win in Bengal, says high turnout signals Mamata’s exit
Union Home Minister claims BJP will win over 110 of 152 seats in first phase, says voter enthusiasm reflects “wave of change” in West Bengal
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday (April 24) asserted that the massive voter turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections clearly indicated a decisive tilt in favour of the BJP in the state and predicted the exit of Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee from power.
The remarks came a day after West Bengal recorded a whopping 92.88 per cent voter turnout in the first phase of the elections.
‘BJP to win 110 of 152 seats’
Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Shah further stated the BJP was all set to win 110 of the 152 seats that went to the polls in the first phase.
Also Read: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu record highest-ever voter turnout since Independence
“Based on the feedback we have received, the people of Bengal have decided their future in the first phase itself. This land has chosen development under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The high voter turnout clearly says that Didi is on her way out and the BJP is set to form the government,” said Shah as quoted by India Today.
‘Wave of change’
“The BJP will win more than 110 of the 152 seats. This means that after the second phase, we will be in a position to form a BJP government in West Bengal,” he added.
Also Read: Who holds the edge in TN and West Bengal elections amid high turnout? | Capital Beat
Referring to the massive voter turnout in the first phase, Shah said that the enthusiasm is expected to rise among electors whom he urged to intensify the “wave of change”. The Union Home Minister predicted a BJP surge in eastern India, stating “Anga, Banga and Kalinga” would vote the saffron party to power.
Pitch for momentum
"I am confident that in the second phase, there will be more enthusiasm. Now, it is also the responsibility of the voters at the second phase to move forward in this era of change. After the 5th, 'Anga, Banga and Kalinga', all three places will be ruled by the BJP and lotus. And I believe that this is a good sign for our entire East India," he added.
Shah said that a BJP government in West Bengal would bring an end to what he described as a “reign of terror” and ensure the restoration of law and order in the state.
Promises on governance
“Change means an infiltration-free Bengal, freedom from corruption, appeasement and extortion, along with employment opportunities for the youth,” he said, adding that women’s safety would be a top priority.
Also Read: Murshidabad blast, candidate assaults shadow Bengal's 90 per cent turnout
Lashing out at Banerjee, Shah alleged that the TMC leadership was attempting to mislead voters about the BJP’s intentions in the state. “The Chief Minister is creating fear that outsiders will rule Bengal if the BJP comes to power,” he said.