Mamata Banerjee predicts TMC victory with over 226 seats in West Bengal 2026 polls

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has exuded confidence in the Trinamool Congress's (TMC) prospects for the 2026 Assembly elections, predicting a victory with more than 226 seats. The official schedule for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 was announced by the Election Commission of India, with polling set to take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, 2026. The counting of votes and declaration of results are scheduled for May 4, 2026.. During a press conference, Mamata Banerjee announced that the TMC would contest 291 out of the state's 294 seats, leaving the remaining three seats in the Darjeeling hills for its ally, the Anit Thapa-led BGPM.. Banerjee also confirmed her own candidacy from the Bhabanipur assembly constituency, where she is expected to face a direct contest against BJP's Suvendu Adhikari.. Banerjee launched a critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the saffron party's seat tally would decline in the upcoming elections, attributing this to their 'anti-people policies'.. This prediction of a strong TMC performance is a notable statement, especially considering that various opinion polls have suggested a more competitive election. For instance, an opinion poll by Matrize-IANS predicted the TMC to secure between 155-170 seats, while the BJP was projected to win 100-115 seats, indicating a tough contest.. Another poll suggested that while the TMC might return to power, its majority could be reduced.. The political landscape in West Bengal for the 2026 elections is characterized by several key issues. These include the ongoing debate around Bengali identity and sub-nationalism, the influence of the Matua community, and urban discontent.. The TMC has historically leveraged the 'Bohiragoto' (outsider) plank against the BJP, a strategy that has proven effective in previous elections.. The issue of industrial development and employment also remains a significant talking point, with the opposition BJP alleging a decline in industries, while the TMC points to its focus on MSME expansion and infrastructure.. Furthermore, the 'Special Intensive Revision' (SIR) of voter rolls, which led to the deletion of a substantial number of voters, has been a point of controversy and has been raised by Banerjee in legal and political forums.. The TMC government has also prioritized welfare programs aimed at various sections of society, including women, students, and marginalized communities, which have been a cornerstone of their electoral success in the past.. The TMC has been actively undertaking organizational changes at the district level to bolster its preparedness for the upcoming polls.. These changes involve leadership reshuffles and the formation of core committees, coinciding with the BJP's appointment of key figures to manage their election campaign.. The 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections are shaping up to be a high-stakes contest. While Mamata Banerjee expresses strong confidence in her party's victory, various analyses and opinion polls suggest a more closely fought battle, with the BJP posing a significant challenge. The outcome will not only determine the political future of West Bengal but could also have echoes in national politics.. The elections are scheduled to be held on April 23 and April 29, 2026, with results to be declared on May 4, 2026..

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