BJP wins West Bengal state elections, ending Trinamool Congress rule

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won the state assembly elections in West Bengal, securing a majority of seats and ending the 14-year rule of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The victory marks a major expansion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party into eastern India, a region long dominated by regional parties. The BJP is now expected to form the next state government, with the oath-taking ceremony likely on 25 Baishakh (early May).

The win was driven by a split in Muslim votes that weakened the TMC's traditional support base, as well as a strong campaign by BJP leaders including Home Minister Amit Shah. However, the BJP suffered a major setback in Tamil Nadu, where it was reduced to just one seat and its top candidates were defeated. The victory in West Bengal is seen as a boost for Modi's agenda, including potential civil law reforms and infrastructure projects.