BJP Set to Form Government in Bengal for First Time; Vijay Sweeps Tamil Nadu, UDF Leads in Kerala

New Delhi: The assembly election results of five states changed the picture of politics this time. Many old equations were broken and new faces and forces emerged. The biggest shock was seen in West Bengal, where for the first time BJP cleared the way to form the government with a strong victory. The party crossed 200, while Mamata Banerjee's party was reduced to double digits.

What was the big upheaval in Bengal?

BJP made a historic performance in Bengal with 294 seats. The party got tremendous support in border, tribal and industrial areas. This time Trinamool Congress remained confined to its traditional strongholds.

After the defeat, Mamata Banerjee also raised questions on the vote counting process. The victory of leaders like Suvendu Adhikari further strengthened the position of BJP.

How big did Vijay's entry prove to be in Tamil Nadu?

Actor-turned-politician Vijay surprised everyone in Tamil Nadu. His party TVK emerged as the largest party and came close to majority. Both DMK and AIADMK were left behind. Even M.K. Stalin could not save his seat. Vijay's new image and well-planned strategy attracted the voters.

Are there signs of change of power in Kerala?

The Congress-led UDF has got a clear lead in Kerala. Change of power after ten years is considered almost certain. However, to form the government it will need the support of its allies, especially the Indian Union Muslim League. Pinarayi Vijayan saved his seat, but resigned after the defeat.

How strong has BJP's hold become in Assam?

In Assam, BJP has further strengthened its position by registering victory for the third consecutive time. Under the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma, the party maintained its faith on the strength of development and schemes. Congress was completely left behind here and even its big faces could not win the elections.

What is the impact of these results on the country's politics?

It is clearly visible from these elections that BJP's hold is continuously getting stronger. At the same time, new challenges have arisen before the regional parties. Congress has definitely got some relief, but its comeback still seems limited.

The biggest impact has been on the left parties, which have now gone far behind in politics. Overall, these results may prove to decide the direction of the country's politics in the times to come..