"Voice for change growing stronger," says West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul as BJP's Debganshu Panda leads with massive margin in Falta re-poll
Kolkata, May 24
West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul on Sunday said trends indicate a shift in voter sentiment amid the counting of votes in the Falta Assembly constituency re-poll.
According to the data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), after 16 rounds of counting, Debganshu Panda is currently leading with a margin of 76,397 votes. CPI(M) Sambhu Nath Kurmi trails behind with 34,873 votes.
In a post on X, Paul said, "In the Falta Assembly constituency (Seat 144), early trends from re-polling indicate a strong momentum and a visible shift in ground reality and voter sentiment across South 24 Parganas as vote counting progresses today."
Expressing gratitude to voters, she added, "We are truly humbled by the trust and support shown by the people. Their faith strengthens our resolve to work harder for peace, development, transparency, and a prosperous Bengal. The voice for change is growing stronger, and we remain committed to serving the people with dedication and responsibility."
Meanwhile, BJP leader Keya Ghosh claimed that previous elections were influenced by irregularities, while the current voting process reflects free choice by the electorate.
Speaking to ANI on the BJP leading in the Falta re-poll, she said, "Earlier elections were rigged, but now, people are voting according to their own will."
On Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) chief Humayun Kabir, she said, "I urge him not to make any provocative remarks that can lead to communal clashes. Learn to respect the law."
The counting of votes for the high-stakes Falta Assembly constituency repoll in West Bengal has taken a decisive turn. BJP candidate Debangshu Panda has established a commanding lead as officials move through the 21 scheduled rounds of counting under heavy institutional security.
Polling for the re-election in the constituency was held on May 21 under heavy security and institutional supervision. The 144 Falta Assembly constituency recorded an approximate voter turnout of 60.43 per cent till 1 pm on polling day.
The repoll in Falta was ordered after irregularities were reported during polling in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, which were held in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
The BJP formed its first government in West Bengal after winning 207 seats in the 2026 Assembly elections, with Suvendu Adhikari taking oath as Chief Minister.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm happy that the re-poll happened fairly this time. But let's not forget why it was needed in the first place. The irregularities in the original 2026 election are deeply concerning. We need systemic reforms, not just a win for one party.
Impressive swing! As an observer from abroad, it's fascinating to see how Indian democracy handles re-polls. The heavy security and institutional supervision seem to have worked. Hope this trend continues for free and fair elections everywhere.
Keya Ghosh's comments about AJUP chief are spot on. We don't need communal tensions in Bengal. Development and peace should be the priority. But the minister's 'voice for change' narrative seems a bit premature - let's wait for all rounds to finish. 😏
Massive margin of 76,000+ votes! This isn't just a win, it's a mandate. The people of Falta have clearly rejected the previous government. Democratic processes working as intended, despite the earlier hiccups.
Good that re-poll happened, but why only Falta? Many other seats also had issues in the 2026 elections. We need a thorough investigation, not selective re-polls. The democracy is strong but we need to ensure every vote counts equally. ✊
S Sarah B