Bengal’s record voter turnout over two phases of polling is the harbinger of change in the state, PM Narendra Modi said Wednesday, expressing confidence about BJP coming to office there for the first time. He predicted that NDA would also retain Assam and Puducherry and spring a few surprises in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. “The poll results on May 4 will strengthen our resolve to build a developed India and infuse new energy into the pace of development,” Modi said while inaugurating the Ganga Expressway in UP’s Hardoi. The PM described voters turning out in droves again during the second phase of polling in 142 constituencies of Bengal as a reflection of elections being held in an atmosphere devoid of fear. He lauded the state’s electorate for their “awareness of democratic rights”. Citing recent electoral performances as a tailwind for NDA, Modi said the BJP-led alliance was building on its Bihar triumph and strong showing in local body elections in Gujarat, where it won most municipal councils and nagar panchayats.