NewsIndia

The 2026 elections in India have seen significant upsets, with the BJP poised to take control in West Bengal and a debut party led by a film star making waves in Tamil Nadu. The political landscape shifted dramatically from prior expectations.

Before this election, many analysts expected the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to maintain its stronghold in West Bengal. However, the BJP has bagged 72 seats out of 293 total assembly seats. TMC has only managed to secure 29 seats. This marks a historic shift as BJP is set to form its first government in West Bengal since Independence after 15 years of TMC rule.

In Tamil Nadu, expectations were high for the ruling DMK. Yet, actor turned politician Vijay’s party, TVK, is poised to deliver a super hit on debut. TVK has won 65 seats and is leading on another 43 out of 234 constituencies. The ruling DMK is trailing with only 25 wins and leading on just 35 seats.

The results also reflect changes in other states. In Kerala, the United Democratic Front (UDF) swept the polls with an impressive total of 99 seats, while Congress secured 63 seats and its ally IUML added another 22. In Assam, BJP has bagged 73 seats out of 101 declared constituencies. The Congress gained ten seats while AIUDF clinched two.

In Puducherry, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is set to form the next government with a majority of 18 in the 30-member House. This outcome indicates shifting allegiances among voters across multiple states.

Polling in West Bengal held on April 23 and April 29 saw record voter turnout of about 92 percent. This high engagement reflects voter interest and possibly discontent with previous administrations.

Mamata Banerjee is currently leading over her BJP rival Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur constituency, but her party’s overall performance indicates a significant decline from past dominance.