In West Bengal, senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah today claimed that his party is headed for a strong performance after the first phase of Assembly election polling. Addressing a press conference at New Town in Kolkata, he said the BJP is likely to win more than 110 of the 152 seats that went to polls in the first phase. He thanked the Election Commission and security forces for ensuring free and fair polls.

The BJP leader said that the TMC’s exit is imminent, adding that the BJP is going to form the government with an absolute majority. He also congratulated voters for recording more than 92 per cent turnout in the first phase, describing it as a positive sign for democracy.

The BJP leader praised the role of the Central forces, the Election Commission, and the state police for peaceful polling. He added that people had voted in a fear-free atmosphere this time and said the mandate would favour development and change in West Bengal.