West Bengal Congress President and candidate for the Srirampur Assembly constituency, Subhankar Sarkar, stated on May 3 that the people of Bengal had demonstrated patience and responsibility in defending democracy amid attempts by the Election Commission to undermine the electoral process over the past six months.
Addressing the current political climate and exit poll findings, Sarkar said, “I believe this is an important day for democracy. For six months, the Election Commission tried to undermine it, yet the people of Bengal showed patience and responsibility to protect democracy.”
On the ongoing debate surrounding exit polls, he added, “In the days ahead, Bengal will surely safeguard democratic values and form a government that serves the people. From Congress, I want to say only that in future, Congress can be the true alternative, unlike any other party. BJP is not in a position to form a government, and TMC too faces uncertainty.”
Regarding changes in officers during the election process, Sarkar remarked, “The Election Commission may change officers repeatedly, but the complaints against it remain — and the question is, who will hold it accountable?”
His comments come amid multiple exit poll projections for West Bengal and other states ahead of May 4 counting. Several exit polls suggest a closely contested election in West Bengal. For instance, Chanakya Strategies has forecasted 150-160 seats for the BJP and 130-140 for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the 294-seat Assembly, Matrize predicted 146-161 seats for the BJP and 125-140 for TMC, while Poll Diary projected 142-171 for BJP and 99-127 for TMC with smaller parties expected to secure remaining seats.
Security has been increased across Kolkata ahead of counting day, with heavy deployments outside key strongrooms such as Sakhawat Memorial Government Girls’ High School in Bhabanipur, Netaji Indoor Stadium, and other significant locations.
Results for elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry will be announced on May 4.