West Bengal Assembly Elections Kick Off with High Voter Turnout
The assembly elections in West Bengal kicked off with an impressive voter turnout of 89.93% on Thursday. Political leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari from the BJP, made bold claims about their party's performance amidst a highly competitive atmosphere against the TMC. With extensive security measures in place, the voting process remained largely peaceful despite the heat. As both parties vie for power, the stakes are high in this crucial electoral battle. The results will be announced on May 4, generating significant anticipation in the political landscape.
| Apr 23, 2026, 19:40 IST
Enthusiastic Start to Voting in West Bengal
On Thursday, the assembly elections in West Bengal commenced with great enthusiasm, as voters cast their ballots in the first phase covering 152 seats. From early morning, a significant number of voters headed to polling stations, and despite the rising heat throughout the day, the turnout continued. According to data released by the Election Commission, by 5 PM, the state recorded an impressive voter turnout of 89.93 percent. The results will be announced on May 4, but this substantial participation has already stirred political discussions. Suvendu Adhikari, a leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), made a bold claim regarding his party's performance in this phase of voting. Reacting to the record turnout, he stated, "The Election Commission has succeeded, and the voting was conducted peacefully. As per my information, the turnout has reached ninety percent. We will win 125 out of the 152 seats in this phase... The Muslim vote was already united, but after the results, you will see that 85 percent of Hindus will support the BJP."
Smooth Voting Process Across the State
It is noteworthy that voting began at 7 AM, and long queues were observed outside polling booths shortly thereafter. Despite the scorching heat, the enthusiasm of the voters remained high throughout the day. This time, the Election Commission has made extensive arrangements to ensure smooth voting across West Bengal. Over two hundred thousand security personnel have been deployed, and their presence has played a crucial role in maintaining peace. Overall, the voting process has been largely peaceful, with very few reports of disruptions from various locations.
TMC and BJP Face Off
The 2026 West Bengal assembly elections have turned into a critical and intense battle for power. The ruling party, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, is facing a strong challenge from the BJP. This contest has evolved into a direct confrontation, with both parties exerting their full efforts to sway voters in urban and rural electoral areas alike. While the TMC relies on its governance record and robust grassroots network, the BJP is working to expand its influence by garnering public support on key political and social issues.