Kolkata: Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that it has already begun “preparing excuses” in anticipation of defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Taking to social media a day before the counting of votes, Gokhale claimed that the BJP is trying to build a narrative to justify a potential loss in the state. “BJP preparing excuses before their Bengal defeat tomorrow,” he said, suggesting that the party may question the fairness of the electoral process once results are declared.
His remarks come at a time when political tensions are running high ahead of the results of the 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly election, scheduled to be announced on May 4. The elections, held in two phases in April, witnessed a record voter turnout of over 90%, reflecting intense public participation.
Gokhale also criticised the decision of the Election Commission of India to order repolling in the Falta constituency, alleging that such moves could be used to benefit the BJP. He questioned the timing and scale of the repoll, arguing that it raises concerns about the electoral process.
According to his statement, the BJP, sensing an unfavourable outcome, may later claim that elections were not conducted in a free and fair manner. He further alleged that various steps taken during polling, including heavy deployment of central forces, were part of a larger strategy to influence the outcome.
The BJP has not officially responded to Gokhale’s remarks. However, party leaders have consistently expressed confidence about their performance in the elections, with several exit polls predicting a strong showing for the party.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened across strongrooms and counting centres in Kolkata and other districts, with central forces deployed to ensure a smooth counting process.
The high-stakes election has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, with the ruling Trinamool Congress seeking to retain power and the BJP aiming to form its first government in the state. As the countdown to results enters its final hours, political rhetoric has intensified, with leaders on both sides making strong claims about the outcome.
All eyes are now on counting day, which is expected to determine the political future of the state amid heightened anticipation and sharp exchanges between rival parties.
