The recent Assembly polls saw a record turnout, with similar expectations for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal at the end of April. In Tamil Nadu, polls are scheduled for April 23, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and 29. West Bengal has a history of high turnouts, notably during periods of intense political competition.
The voter participation in West Bengal has varied significantly over the years. In 1977, the state recorded a turnout of 56.15%, a stark contrast to the 84.33% witnessed in 2011 when the Trinamool Congress came to power. Mamata Banerjee’s leadership saw a significant rise in voter engagement, with the Trinamool Congress winning 184 seats in 2011.
In 2006, West Bengal set a record turnout of 84.52%, surpassing the numbers seen during the Trinamool Congress’s rise to power. The Left Front, particularly the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has historically maintained a strong presence in the state. Since 2011, voter turnout in West Bengal has gradually decreased, but the ruling Trinamool Congress has managed to strengthen its position in successive elections.
Thursday’s elections in Assam and J&K also witnessed high voter turnouts, with 85.91% and 89.87% recorded, respectively. Kerala, on the other hand, saw a turnout of 78.27%, falling short of its historical highs. The results of the recent polls in these states, along with J&K, are set to be announced on May 4.
