Political strategist and predictor Vimal Singh on Bengal results and the road aheadYou called the Bengal and Assam elections right. While Assam’s result was more or less certain, Bengal on-ground situation was very fluid. As a political strategist, what did you see? Actually the situation was very different as compared to 2021. This time, voters were fed up of the same rule, same trend. There was no development and rising crime and lawlessness. When the Mamata replaced the Left in 2011, people were very excited that she would bring change. They waited patiently for 15 years but that didn’t happen. I saw the dissatisfaction on ground, especially in smaller place beyond Kolkata. I also realized that poverty level was going down sharply.Bengal is a very different state, rich with culture and people are very relaxed. They want some development so that they can enjoy their life — not very extravagant, but a simple life. But they watched things getting deteriorated. BJP meanwhile was placing itself as a solid alternative. Things which were earlier looking fluid gradually turned in favor of BJP.Did you foresee ground situation changing in Bengal? Hundred per cent. It was gradual but definite.What is the road ahead for BJP in Bengal? It has to have clear planning on how to proceed. How they will bring development; how they will bring back the culture of Bengal. They have to revive industries, which were in decline. I know a lot of industrial houses. They were complaining to me about the state of affairs. Many of them were on the verge of leaving the state. I told them to stay put.As I said, BJP has to understand Bengal is a very different state. So, it has to be very cautious. They have to fulfill people’s aspirations. People really want that there should be a big change and there should be industrialization.What’s the TMC’s future? Mamata is always known as a lone fighter. But this time the situation is different. First she has to handle her nephew. It will take time, but Lok Sabha elections are still three years away. She will try her best to fight back.What will be the impact of Bengal results on UP? Particularly on Samajwadi Party? There are ample lessons for SP. Party chief Akhilesh Yadav should make deep introspection. He should plan a new strategy because BJP has got a shot in the arm. He should hit the ground, walking, travelling, meeting people, speak with conviction. It will make an impact. But we have to wait and watch.What made Himanta so successful in Assam? It’s true that Himanta polarized voters, but one has to also notice things he has done in Assam by bringing industries and creating job opportunities. He has opened his office for the corporates. And the way he’s promoting, giving incentives, reducing tariffs and meeting them personally is really something to be emulated.
