Mamata Banerjee rejects Bengal exit polls, predicts over 226 seats for Trinamool

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has dismissed exit polls predicting a BJP victory or a close contest in the 2026 assembly election, claiming the forecasts are intended to demoralise Trinamool Congress workers and leaders.

Expressing confidence in her party’s performance, Banerjee said the Trinamool Congress would win at least 226 seats in the 294-member assembly and could even cross 230 seats.

“We will cross 226 seats in 2026. We might even cross 230 seats. I have complete faith in the massive mandate given by the people,” she said, thanking voters for turning out in large numbers despite “heat and alleged intimidation”.

West Bengal recorded its highest-ever voter turnout of 92.47 per cent in the election.

Banerjee alleged that the exit poll projections were part of a “larger conspiracy” aimed at shaping public perception before counting day. Votes will be counted on Monday.

“Those who tried to subdue Bengal have been subdued by the ballot,” she said, while also thanking party workers who “fought relentlessly and endured attacks”.

The chief minister appealed to supporters to remain calm and avoid violence even if provoked.

“Remain calm and disciplined. Have faith in the people of Bengal and have faith in Didi. Wait till the evening of May 4, you will get your answer,” she said.

Among the major exit polls, only Peoples Pulse predicted a clear Trinamool majority, forecasting 177 to 187 seats for the party and 95 to 110 seats for the BJP.

Other surveys projected a BJP advantage. Matrize forecast 146 to 161 seats for the BJP and 125 to 140 for Trinamool. Poll Diary projected 142 to 171 seats for the BJP and 95 to 110 for Trinamool. P-Marq estimated 150 to 175 seats for the BJP and 118 to 138 for Trinamool, while Chanakya Strategies predicted 150 to 160 seats for the BJP and 130 to 140 for Trinamool.