The stage is set for vote counting in the 2026 assembly elections across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, with results expected to shape the political narrative in these key regions.
Counting will begin with postal ballots at 8 am, followed by EVM votes from 8:30 am, with round-wise updates available in real time on the ECINET platform and the Election Commission's official website.
West Bengal: High-Stakes Battle
In West Bengal, the most closely watched contest, tensions remained high until the final hours. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari struck a confident note, saying, 'I offered prayers at the Lakshmi Narayan Temple. God is with us. A government that protects the interests of Sanatan Dharma is coming.'
The BJP has projected optimism about dislodging the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), while the TMC remains equally assertive about retaining power. Party leader Kunal Ghosh claimed, 'Mamata Banerjee is coming back with more than 200 seats,' even as he raised concerns over arrangements for counting agents.
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee also flagged alleged security lapses, urging party workers to remain vigilant amid reports of power outages and suspicious movement near strong rooms. Adding to the charged atmosphere, the Election Commission ordered repolling in all 285 booths of Falta, citing 'severe electoral offences,' triggering sharp reactions across parties.
Security has been tightened across Kolkata, with CRPF officials inspecting strong rooms and party workers from rival camps gathering outside counting centres, reflecting deep mistrust. Officials, however, have reiterated that counting will be conducted in a 'free and fair' manner.
Tamil Nadu: DMK-led Alliance Expected to Retain Power
In Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK-led alliance is widely expected to retain power, backed by strong turnout and favourable exit polls. Congress leader Girish Chodankar said, 'We are confident that our DMK alliance will form the government and create history in Tamil Nadu.'
Preparations have been meticulous, with a three-tier security system and QR code-based access controls introduced at counting centres for the first time.
Assam: BJP Seeks Another Term
In Assam, the BJP is seeking another term, banking on its governance record. Union minister Piyush Goyal said, 'In Assam and Puducherry, the BJP will win for sure.' The Congress, however, remains hopeful. MLA Aminul Islam said, 'People have rejected corruption and placed their trust in a clear face.' A key trend in the state has been higher turnout among women voters, which could prove decisive.
Kerala: LDF Aims for Rare Consecutive Term
Kerala presents a unique contest, with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) aiming for a rare consecutive term in a state known for alternating governments. While exit polls remain mixed, the Congress-led UDF is hopeful of a comeback. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi asserted, 'In none of these five states will a BJP government be formed.' High voter turnout and strong participation, especially among women, signal an engaged electorate.
Puducherry: NDA vs Congress-DMK Alliance
In Puducherry, the BJP-led NDA is looking to consolidate its position, while the Congress-DMK alliance is aiming to regain lost ground. The Union Territory recorded one of the highest voter turnouts, underlining strong voter engagement. Both sides have struck contrasting tones. Congress leader Pawan Khera said, 'We are absolutely confident that a decisive mandate is coming against the oppressive governments they are running.' The BJP, meanwhile, has projected confidence in its prospects. Union minister Sanjay Seth remarked, 'The lotus is blooming across the country, and it is spreading even faster.'
This election cycle has seen record turnout, tight security, and enhanced technology, including live webcasting and digital verification systems. Yet, allegations and counter-allegations have dominated the election season.
