Exit polls are meaningless! Mamata Banerjee rejects exit polls, claims they're inaccurate

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday vehemently rejected the exit poll predictions, arguing that they did not reflect the true sentiments of the electorate. She accused the poll results of being fabricated and claimed they were "manufactured at home" months in advance.

Addressing the media, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader stated that exit polls hold no real significance and criticised the media for airing them. "We have witnessed the inaccuracy of exit polls in 2016, 2019, and 2021. None of those predictions came true," she asserted.

Banerjee further alleged, "These exit polls were concocted by certain individuals two months ago purely for media consumption. They are meaningless."

Public Sentiment Not Reflected in Polls

Banerjee emphasised that the exit polls did not match the public's response observed during her rallies. She expressed scepticism about the BJP's attempts at polarisation, particularly among Muslim voters.

"The BJP's attempts to create division by falsely claiming that Muslims are taking away quotas meant for SC, ST, and OBCs will not sway Muslim voters towards them," Banerjee remarked. "Additionally, I believe the CPI(M) and Congress have aided the BJP in West Bengal."

Confidence in Regional Parties

Despite the exit poll predictions, Banerjee expressed confidence in the performance of regional parties. She highlighted parties like the Samajwadi Party, RJD, DMK, and Shiv Sena (UBT) as potential strong performers in the elections.

When questioned about her relationship with CPI(M) and Congress in West Bengal and the possibility of joining the I.N.D.I.A bloc government at the Centre if it comes to power, Banerjee remained optimistic.

"I don't foresee any obstacles at the national level unless the CPI(M) intervenes," she commented.

Open to Joining I.N.D.I.A Bloc Government

Banerjee indicated her willingness to join the I.N.D.I.A bloc government if invited. "Every regional party has its own respect. After discussing with everyone, if we are invited, we will join and take other regional parties along. But let's wait for the poll results first," she added.

BJP's Confidence in West Bengal

In contrast, the exit polls have forecasted significant gains for the BJP in West Bengal, suggesting they might secure more seats than the TMC, which has governed the state since 2011.

State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar expressed optimism about his party's prospects, claiming they would win at least 25 seats. However, he noted he would not be content with anything less than 30 seats.