A fresh opinion poll ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections has thrown up a mixed picture, suggesting that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) is likely to retain power while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) makes notable gains.
According to the latest VoteVibe survey, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s party is projected to secure between 174 and 184 seats in the 294-member Assembly, comfortably above the majority mark of 148. If the numbers hold, it would mark a fourth consecutive term for the TMC, albeit with a reduced tally.
BJP Gains, Opposition Still Struggles
The survey indicates a stronger performance for the BJP, which is expected to win between 108 and 118 seats, an improvement over earlier projections.
In contrast, the Congress and Left parties appear to remain marginal players, with the poll estimating their combined tally at just 0 to 4 seats.
This marks a shift from a March 23 survey, which had placed the TMC higher at 184–194 seats and the BJP at 98–108. The updated figures suggest a slight dip for the ruling party and a strengthening position for the BJP.
Comparison With 2021 Results
In the 2021 Assembly elections, the TMC had secured a sweeping victory with 215 seats, while the BJP won 77.
The new poll indicates that while the TMC may return to power, the BJP could emerge as a significantly stronger opposition force this time.
Regionally, the contest is expected to be tighter in key areas. The BJP appears to have an edge in Midnapore, while the TMC continues to dominate in the Presidency and Malda regions, factors that could influence the final outcome.
Mamata Still Top Choice for CM
Despite signs of a closer contest, Mamata Banerjee remains the most preferred chief ministerial candidate.
The survey shows 46.4% of respondents backing her leadership, compared to 34.9% support for BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPM’s Mohammed Salim trail far behind.
What Matters Most to Voters?
The poll also sheds light on voter priorities, with unemployment and development emerging as the top concerns for 35.1% of respondents.
Law and order, women’s safety, electoral roll-related issues, and inflation follow as key factors influencing voter sentiment.
Public opinion on government schemes appears divided. Notably, 53.6% of respondents said initiatives targeting youth have not effectively addressed unemployment.
Voting patterns also reflect clear social trends. Muslim voters are largely aligned with the TMC, while the BJP draws stronger support from SC-ST communities and upper-caste Hindu voters.
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Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: abplive.com
