Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Apr 30: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged that exit poll projections showing a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) victory in the state Assembly elections were influenced by external pressure and financial inducements.
In a video message shared on her social media account on Thursday, Banerjee claimed that certain media houses were “pressured and paid” to broadcast favourable projections for the BJP. She alleged that these exit poll figures were circulated to media outlets around 1:08 pm on Wednesday with a deliberate political intent.
According to her, the strategy was aimed at creating an impression of a BJP victory to stabilise financial markets and weaken the morale of Trinamool Congress workers ahead of the counting of votes scheduled for May 4.
Banerjee asserted that in reality, her party was poised for a strong performance, claiming that the All India Trinamool Congress could secure as many as 226 seats or even cross 230. She said such projections had been distorted by what she described as coordinated efforts against her party.
The Chief Minister also thanked party workers and voters, praising them for turning out in large numbers despite harsh weather conditions and alleged intimidation. She claimed that both central and state forces had been involved in exerting pressure during the electoral process, while her party workers continued to resist what she termed “oppressive tactics.”
Calling on her cadre to remain alert, Banerjee instructed Trinamool Congress counting agents to closely monitor the counting process and stay present at all times on May 4. She urged them to ensure that any temporary absence from counting tables, such as for meals or breaks, should be covered only by trusted replacements.
She also said she would personally remain active during the counting process, encouraging party workers to maintain vigilance and safeguard strong rooms where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are stored.
Banerjee further urged her party representatives to remain at counting centres until the entire process is complete and results are formally declared, stressing discipline and coordination among workers during the crucial phase.