A day after a record-breaking turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday asserted that the voting trend reflects strong public backing for the BJP.

A day after a record voter turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday projected a sweeping victory for the BJP, claiming the party would win more than 110 of the 152 seats that went to polls.

Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Shah said the high turnout, over 91% as per the Election Commission, signals a clear shift in voter mood, backing “development” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and indicating that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is “on her way out.”

“The people of Bengal have begun the journey from fear to trust. This shows they have chosen development under PM Modi. Mamata Didi’s time is over,” Shah said.

Citing internal party assessments, he added that the BJP is confident of crossing the 110-seat mark in phase one itself and is on track to form the government in the state.

Sharpening his pitch, Shah said that once in power, the BJP government would roll out a “red carpet” for investors in West Bengal to boost industrial growth and employment.

He also announced that, on the lines of Assam, a major drive would be launched to free encroached land across the state.

Shah further thanked the Election Commission, Central Armed Police Forces, and the state police for ensuring peaceful polling, noting that this could be the first election in a long time without any reported loss of life.

Polling for phase one concluded at 6 pm on Thursday with a turnout of over 91%, while the second phase is scheduled for April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.