BJP workers celebrate outside the party’s state headquarters in central Kolkata. | Photo credit: Shrabana Chatterjee
As the counting of votes in the West Bengal Assembly polls progressed on Monday (May 4, 2026), indicating an increase in saffron In the state, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers took to the streets of the state capital Kolkata to celebrate. The party is ready to secure power in the state for the first time. But incumbent Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s seat looked deserted as early results pointed to the loss of her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), after 15 years in power.
BJP supporters draped in saffron raised ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogans on motorbikes as they drove through the city’s streets, which were largely clear of commuters and where most shops remained closed.
“The people of the state voted against the TMC because of atrocities on women, massive corruption and syndicate culture. This is a personal victory for us,” said Santa Ghosh, a BJP supporter, celebrating with ‘gulaal (orange colour)’ outside the state party headquarters at Murlidhar Sen Lane in central Kolkata.
Published – May 4, 2026 10:47 PM IST
