Counting of votes begins: Parties keep fingers crossed in Bengal, TN, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry

Counting of votes for the high-stakes Assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry began on Monday morning, with the outcome seen as crucial for the Congress, BJP, Trinamool Congress and the DMK. Postal ballots are being counted first, followed by EVM votes. 

Authorities have put in place a three-tier security system at all counting centres, along with a QR code-based Photo Identity Card system via ECINET to prevent unauthorised access.

The spotlight is firmly on West Bengal, where Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress is aiming for a fourth consecutive term. The BJP, which has expanded its presence in the state in recent years, is seeking to form a government there for the first time. 

Counting will take place across 77 centres covering 293 seats, following an election marked by heavy security deployment. Banerjee has urged party workers to remain alert, citing concerns over alleged suspicious activity near strong rooms. Security remains tight in Kolkata, with central forces maintaining vigil amid visible mistrust between rival camps.

In Tamil Nadu, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, is widely expected to retain power, according to most exit polls. However, attention is also on actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party’s debut performance, with multiple pollsters predicting a strong showing by the TVK.

On the other side, the opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), in alliance with the BJP, is hoping to capitalise on anti-incumbency sentiment. Counting will be held at 62 centres across the state under strict security protocols.

In Puducherry, six counting centres have been established to oversee the process in the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, in Kerala, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is attempting to unseat the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The BJP-led NDA is also looking to expand its presence in the state’s traditionally bipolar political landscape. Counting will take place across 140 centres in 43 locations. The high voter turnout, coupled with strong participation from women voters, indicates a politically engaged electorate. 

While Chief Minister Vijayan has commended the smooth conduct of polling, opposition parties have raised concerns about the functioning of the Election Commission.

In Assam, the BJP-led NDA is aiming for a third consecutive term, with exit polls predicting a return of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The election saw strong voter participation, with women outnumbering men at polling booths—an emerging trend that could influence the outcome. 

The BJP has framed the contest around stability and cultural identity, while the Congress has focused on governance issues and allegations of corruption.