Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Tuesday expressed confidence that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will return to power, predicting a fourth consecutive term for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the upcoming Assembly elections, reported news agency IANS.
‘Strong Public Connect Will Ensure Victory’
Speaking ahead of the high-stakes polls, Chaturvedi said the political atmosphere in West Bengal indicates continued public support for Banerjee. She argued that despite the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) aggressive campaign, the ruling TMC retains a strong connection with voters, reported IANS.
According to her, issues raised by the BJP – including allegations around infiltration and electoral processes – have not resonated with the electorate. She maintained that the opposition party has struggled to gain the trust of the people in the state, reported IANS.
BJP’s Campaign Faces Resistance, Says Chaturvedi
Chaturvedi also criticised the BJP’s campaign strategy, suggesting that narratives around divisive issues and voter-related concerns have failed to influence public opinion significantly. She claimed that voters in West Bengal remain focused on leadership and governance rather than political rhetoric, reported IANS.
Her remarks come at a time when the BJP has intensified its campaign, positioning itself as the primary challenger to the TMC government.
Congress Signals Comeback Attempt
Amid the ongoing political contest, the Congress has also indicated its intent to regain relevance in the state. Party leader Surendra Rajput raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the electoral process, including claims related to voter verification exercises, reported IANS.
Rajput expressed optimism about a political shift, stating that the people of West Bengal are aware and capable of bringing change through the ballot.
Multi-Cornered Contest Takes Shape
The upcoming Assembly elections are shaping into a multi-cornered contest, with the TMC aiming to retain power, the BJP seeking to expand its footprint, and the Congress attempting a revival.
The political narrative in the state has revolved around governance, welfare schemes, identity politics, and allegations of electoral irregularities, making the contest increasingly intense.
Polling in Two Phases, Results on May 4
West Bengal will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4, as per the Election Commission of India.
With campaigning gathering momentum, all major parties are working to consolidate their support bases, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral battle in one of India’s most politically significant states.
(With inputs from IANS)