Consolidation of Hindus behind Bengal voter surge: BJP

NEW DELHI: Amid conflicting inference over the record voter turnout in Bengal, BJP on Friday credited Hindu consolidation for the surge and dismissed CM Mamata Banerjee's apprehensions of counting malpractices as desperation to distract from the writing on the wall.As Muslims have traditionally rallied behind Trinamool, the jump in voter turnout in this poll is an outcome of Hindu consolidation, BJP claimed.It points to a clear shift against Mamata, BJP functionary Amit Malviya said. "The backdrop to this election has been deeply concerning - recurring communal tensions in regions like Malda and Murshidabad; the exodus of Hindus from pockets of the state; distressing incidents such as Sandeshkhali; and the horrific rape and murder at RG Kar. These are not isolated events; they have shaped public sentiment over time," he said.The BJP functionary added that this election represents a response - people voting in larger numbers without fear to demand "accountability, safety and dignity". He stressed the state has "voted for change, stability and a restoration of trust in governance".With Mamata rushing to EVM strongrooms and asking TMC members to keep vigil, Malviya alleged her theatrics were perhaps the clearest "exit poll" for Bengal.