Kolkata: The electoral contest in Bengal this time has not been shaped by a single wave but by a layered mix of social anxieties, identity assertions, welfare considerations, and institutional interventions. Several factors have worked both for and against the two principal contenders—the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In the end, the outcome will depend on which of these forces translated more effectively into votes on the ground.
The TMC Strategy: A Fortress of Welfare and Identity
Minority consolidation
One of the most decisive factors for the ruling party appears to be the consolidation of minority votes. Muslims, who constitute around 27 percent of Bengal’s population, seem to have rallied strongly behind the TMC. Reports of names being deleted or subjected to scrutiny under the SIR process appear to have deepened a sense of political vulnerability, pushing even fence-sitters towards the ruling party.
This consolidation extended beyond Muslims. Sections of Sikhs, particularly after the controversy involving a senior Sikh IPS officer and remarks by Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, appear to have gravitated towards TMC. Christians and Anglo-Indians too, wary of what they perceive as majoritarian politics, seem to have leaned in the same direction. Together, this created a broad-based minority bloc with significant electoral weight.
Women voters and welfare politics
Women voters—especially in rural Bengal—continue to be a strong support base for Mamata Banerjee. Welfare schemes, direct benefit transfers, and a carefully cultivated image of “Didi” have resonated widely. Alongside policy, there is also visible resentment among sections of women voters over the use of derogatory language against the Chief Minister during the campaign. This combination of material benefits and emotional connect may have ensured a clear tilt in favour of the TMC.
Rural Bengal’s leaning
The rural-urban divide remains evident. Rural Bengal, by most accounts, appears to have stayed with the ruling party. Government outreach, local networks, and booth-level mobilization played a key role. Rural women, in particular, were seen turning out in large numbers, often influencing the voting behaviour within families.
Bengali Asmita (identity)
In the final days of campaigning, especially during the second phase, the issue of Bengali pride—or Bengali Asmita—gained prominence. The TMC framed the election around protecting Bengal’s cultural and linguistic identity. This narrative appears to have resonated across sections, adding an emotional dimension to voter choice.
Organizational strength
The TMC’s cadre network remains one of its biggest strengths. The party’s presence was visible across booths, reflecting deep organizational reach. Even with heavy deployment of central forces, this grassroots machinery plays a crucial role in mobilization and turnout management.
The BJP: Anti-Incumbency and the Push for Parivartan
Desire for change and anti-incumbency
Despite TMC’s strong presence, a section of voters—particularly among the urban middle and upper classes—continues to express a desire for change. Added to this is a degree of anti-incumbency after nearly 15 years of TMC rule, which has influenced segments of the electorate to look towards the BJP as an alternative. While this sentiment was somewhat diluted by controversies around SIR and allegations of central overreach, it has not disappeared. Among both Hindi-speaking and Bengali-speaking urban voters, this factor remains relevant.
Hindi-speaking electorate
The consolidation of Hindi-speaking voters—across caste lines—has been a key pillar for the BJP. Many among those who have settled in Bengal over the past decade appear to have backed the party in large numbers. This demographic, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, could influence closely contested seats.
Central machinery and high-voltage campaigning
The BJP’s campaign saw extensive involvement of central leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah led an aggressive outreach. The large deployment of central forces and officials from outside the state has shaped the electoral atmosphere in a significant way. Supporters view it as ensuring neutrality, while critics see it differently—but its impact is undeniable.
Pro-SIR sentiment
While anger against the SIR process was visible in several areas, there were also pockets where it may have worked to the BJP’s advantage. In tightly contested constituencies, even small shifts in voter rolls can have a decisive impact. A segment of voters also appears to support stricter scrutiny, aligning with the BJP’s position.
Where do Congress and CPM stand?
The Congress and the CPM were also in the fray, though their impact remains uneven. Congress continues to retain pockets of influence, particularly in parts of Malda and Murshidabad, where its organizational base still holds. The CPM, which ruled Bengal for 35 years, appears to still be struggling to regain legislative presence in the Assembly. While there are indications that its vote share may see a marginal increase, it is unlikely to be substantial enough to translate into a significant number of seats.
The Final Countdown: A Battle of Mandates and Math
This election, in many ways, reflects a contest between consolidation and counter-consolidation—between identity, welfare, and the demand for change. The TMC has relied on its social coalitions, welfare framework, and organizational depth. The BJP has leaned on anti-incumbency, demographic consolidation, and strong central campaigning.
As Bengal awaits the verdict on May 4, the central question remains: which of these factors carried more weight inside the polling booth? The answer will shape not just the next government, but also the direction of politics in the state in the years to come.
