New Delhi: Leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Thursday expressed strong confidence following exit poll projections that indicate significant gains for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal and Assam, while also sounding optimistic about performance in southern states.
According to Matrize exit polls, the BJP is projected to emerge as a major contender in the West Bengal Assembly elections, with estimates ranging between 146–161 seats and a vote share of around 42.5%. In Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led alliance is expected to retain power, while Kerala is likely to witness a close contest between the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF).
Reacting to the projections, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the people of Bengal have made up their minds for change. Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi struck a cautious tone, noting that while exit polls suggest a BJP lead, the final verdict will be clear only on counting day.
JD(U) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha echoed similar confidence, stating that feedback from various sources points towards an NDA government in Bengal. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the trend as expected, asserting that the results on May 4 would reflect the public’s mandate.
Adding a lighter note, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra remarked that the mood of the electorate would become clear soon, while Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak urged patience until vote counting concludes.
JD(U) spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad also expressed confidence in Assam, predicting a strong mandate for the BJP. BJP national spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain went a step further, saying the party is set to form governments in both Assam and West Bengal, and hinted at promising performances in Tamil Nadu and Kerala as well.
The final results of the Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4, which will determine how closely the exit poll projections match the actual outcome.
With inputs from IANS
