Mamata Banerjee Alleges Exit Poll Bias, Claims Pressure on Media; Urges Party Workers to Stay Vigilant Ahead of Counting

Kolkata, April 2026 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday alleged that exit poll predictions showing a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) victory in the state Assembly elections were not based on ground reality, but were influenced by pressure and monetary inducements allegedly from the ruling party at the Centre.

In a video message shared on her social media platform, Banerjee claimed that certain media houses had been “fed” exit poll projections under coercion. She further alleged that these projections were circulated around 1:08 PM on Wednesday and were part of a deliberate attempt to influence public perception ahead of the vote counting scheduled for May 4.

According to the Chief Minister, the strategy had a dual objective: to prevent a potential downturn in stock market indices and to demoralize Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers before the final counting of votes.

“The BJP did this using the media. I have specific information that the exit poll projections shown by media houses were circulated to them at 1.08 p.m. on Wednesday. They did this because they realized that in reality, Trinamool Congress’s tally will reach 226 or even cross 230, making all their oppressive tactics futile,” Banerjee said in her message.

She asserted that despite alleged pressure and “oppressive tactics,” the people of West Bengal had expressed their mandate strongly in favour of the TMC. Banerjee thanked voters for participating in large numbers, even in harsh summer conditions, and praised party workers for their efforts during the electoral process.

“We are grateful to the common people for voting in large numbers despite the scorching heat and oppression. I also thank my party workers who fought hard on the ground. Those who wanted to seize Bengal have had their fate sealed in the ballot box,” she added.

The Chief Minister also alleged misconduct during polling, claiming that both central security forces and state police had acted in an oppressive manner against party workers and civilians. However, she maintained that the resilience of voters and TMC cadre ensured a “free and fair” expression of the people’s will.

In her message, Banerjee also issued strict instructions to Trinamool Congress workers and counting agents to remain alert and maintain their presence at counting centres and strong rooms where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are stored.

“I will personally be on the streets to guard the strong rooms. If I can do it, you all can too,” she said, urging workers to remain committed until the completion of counting.

She further advised counting agents to remain at their designated tables throughout the process on May 4. In case of unavoidable breaks, such as for meals or restroom visits, she instructed that only trustworthy replacements be arranged to ensure the integrity of the counting process.

“Remain at the counting tables until I address the press conference after counting is over. If you must step away, ensure your replacement is someone reliable and cannot be influenced or bought,” Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister’s remarks come ahead of a closely watched counting day, with all major political parties preparing for the final outcome of a high-stakes electoral contest in West Bengal.