The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly polls for 152 constituencies in 16 districts saw a record-breaking voter turnout, surpassing the highest percentage in the last 15 years by 5 p.m. on Thursday. The polling, which ended at 6 p.m., witnessed queues of voters at certain polling booths in the state.
The Office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) reported a polling percentage of 89.93 by 5 p.m., the highest in the last 15 years since 2011. The final polling percentage is set to be calculated and announced on Friday. Notably, the polling records from previous elections were broken with expectations of crossing the 90% mark.
The polling process on Thursday was relatively peaceful, with only isolated incidents of tension and clashes reported. The high voter turnout has energized the Bharatiya Janata Party leadership, interpreting it as a sign of anti-incumbency and a potential shift in government after 15 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the significance of the voter turnout in campaign rallies for the upcoming phases of polling.
