Mamata Banerjee sets target of winning over 215 seats in 2026 West Bengal assembly polls
Times of India | 27 February 2025
NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday set an ambitious goal for the 2026 assembly elections, aiming to secure over 215 seats in the 294-member house.
She asserted that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) would significantly cut down the BJP’s numbers, which stood at 77 in the 2021 polls.
"We will cross 215 seats in the next Bengal assembly elections and ensure the BJP’s seat count drops further," Banerjee declared while addressing a party gathering.
Taking a swipe at the BJP, the TMC chief recalled the saffron party’s past election slogans.
"They had said ‘200 paar’ in 2021 but faced defeat. In 2024, they aimed for ‘400 paar’ in the Lok Sabha elections but couldn’t even secure a majority. Abhishek was absolutely right—we will achieve a two-thirds majority, but you all must work for an even bigger win. This time, BJP candidates should lose their deposits," she remarked.
TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee echoed her call, urging party workers to strive for a decisive victory.
"The battle for Bengal’s future has begun. We must ensure TMC's triumph and elect Mamata Banerjee as chief minister for a fourth consecutive term. Our objective is to secure a two-thirds majority in 2026," he stated.
In the 2021 elections, the ruling TMC secured 213 seats, comfortably retaining power, while the BJP won 77.
With the 2026 elections approaching, the TMC is now focused on strengthening its voter base and countering the BJP’s challenge in the state.
Stay updated with breaking news, bank holidays and upcoming public holidays in march.