New Delhi

Nitin Nabin on Thursday said the Bharatiya Janata Party expects strong performances in all five states and one Union Territory where elections are being held, asserting that the party will secure an absolute majority in West Bengal and form its first government there.

In an interview, Nabin said the political atmosphere was favourable for the BJP across the poll-bound regions. He expressed confidence that the BJP-led alliance would retain power in Assam and Puducherry without difficulty.

Speaking about West Bengal, he said voters were ready for change after 15 years of All India Trinamool Congress rule under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He claimed the BJP would receive a surprise mandate and win with a clear majority.

The first phase of voting in Bengal is underway for 152 seats, while the second phase for the remaining 142 seats is scheduled for April 29. Results for all states will be declared on May 4.

On Tamil Nadu, Nabin said there was growing dissatisfaction with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam over alleged corruption, disorder and what he described as an anti-Sanatan outlook. He said the BJP, as part of the National Democratic Alliance, was supporting ally All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, which is leading the coalition in the state.

Commenting on actor-politician Vijay and his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, Nabin said it remained to be seen how much political traction the actor could generate. He noted that popularity alone may not guarantee success in politics and said grassroots impact would be the true test.

He also ruled out any need for a post-poll alliance with Vijay’s party, stating that the NDA was confident of forming the government in Tamil Nadu on its own.

READ MORE: West Bengal Polls: In first phase, 152 seats outcome crucial for Mamata, BJP

Regarding Kerala, Nabin said the BJP had steadily increased its vote share in recent years and was emerging as a significant political force in the state.