Record voter turnout in West Bengal Assembly elections sets historic benchmark as CEC Gyanesh Kumar praises democratic participation amid tight BJP-TMC contest, strong security deployment, and high polling percentages across both phases ahead of results on May 4.
A remarkable surge in voter participation has marked the two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal, setting a historic benchmark since Independence. The Election Commission has highlighted the unprecedented turnout as a strong signal of democratic engagement, despite scattered incidents of unrest in some regions.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar extended congratulations to the electorate, praising their commitment to the democratic process. In an official statement issued by the Election Commission of India, he acknowledged that both phases of polling recorded the highest voter turnout in the state’s electoral history since Independence.
According to data released by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, polling stood at an impressive 91.31 percent by 6 P.M. on the second polling day. Officials noted that the final figure is expected to rise further, as queues persisted at several polling booths beyond the official closing time. Early projections suggest that the final turnout may approach or even surpass the already record-setting 93.19 percent recorded during the first phase on April 23.
The first phase covered 152 Assembly constituencies, while the second phase completed polling in the remaining 142 constituencies, effectively concluding the voting process across the state. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, when the final outcome will be declared.
Region-wise data revealed that East Burdwan district recorded the highest voter turnout at 93.39 percent, reflecting strong rural participation. In contrast, Kolkata South registered the lowest turnout at 87.25 percent, though this figure still remains significantly high by national standards.
Despite the largely peaceful conduct of elections, sporadic incidents of violence and clashes were reported in isolated pockets, including certain districts and parts of Kolkata. However, authorities emphasized that these incidents were limited and did not significantly disrupt the overall voting process.
The polling was conducted under extensive security arrangements, with the deployment of 2,407 companies of central forces. The process was closely monitored by 142 general observers and 95 police observers, marking an increase in oversight compared to the first phase.
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Meanwhile, various post-poll surveys have presented mixed projections regarding the electoral outcome. According to Matrize, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could secure between 146 and 161 seats, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) may win between 125 and 160 seats. P-Marq has projected a stronger performance for BJP, estimating up to 175 seats, potentially crossing the majority mark, while TMC is expected to secure between 118 and 138 seats. Poll Diary forecasts BJP winning between 142 and 171 seats, with TMC ranging between 99 and 127 seats.
These projections indicate a highly competitive political contest, with the final verdict now resting on the official counting process. Regardless of the outcome, the record-breaking voter turnout stands as a testament to the people’s active participation and trust in the democratic system.
