Trinamool Congress (TMC) Chief Mamata Banerjee has urged party candidates and counting agents to remain at counting centres, even as early trends suggested a strong lead for the BJP in West Bengal.In a video message to party workers, she tried to keep morale steady and reminded them that the counting process was still in its initial stages. She asked them not to feel discouraged or give up.
She also specifically requested that TMC candidates and agents continue staying at the counting venues instead of leaving. Reassuring supporters, she said:
"I appeal to everyone that neither TMC candidates nor counting agents should abandon counting centres...We are still ahead in 170 seats, but I request everyone not to lose hope,"
She further encouraged party workers to stay optimistic, saying they should not “lose hope” and suggesting that the final outcome would only become clear after the later stages of counting.