West Bengal’s Assembly elections concluded today with strong voter participation and a firm warning from Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal, who stressed that peace must continue after the electoral process ends.
After polling wrapped up, Agarwal addressed the media and noted that the elections took place peacefully across two phases. At the same time, he urged citizens to maintain the same calm atmosphere during the post-election period.
Firm warning on post-poll violence
Importantly, Agarwal made it clear that there should be no post-poll violence in West Bengal. He stressed that maintaining law and order does not end with voting.
In addition, he confirmed that security arrangements remain in place. The Election Commission and the Ministry of Home Affairs have decided to keep multiple battalions and companies of paramilitary forces deployed in the state even after polling concludes.
Smooth polling and voter list update drive
Meanwhile, the CEO said the polling process remained smooth across all phases. He credited the system for its orderly execution and voter cooperation.
He also referred to the Special Intensive Review (SIR) of electoral rolls. During this exercise, authorities removed the names of deceased voters from the list.
According to him, voters noticed these corrections on the ground. As a result, many expressed satisfaction with the updated electoral rolls.
Furthermore, Agarwal indicated that West Bengal may see a structural change in future elections. He suggested that polls could potentially be conducted in a single phase going forward.
During polling hours, he also urged voters to reach booths before 6 pm and exercise their franchise.
High turnout across districts
As voting concluded at 6 pm, turnout figures remained close to the 90% mark across the state.
To begin with, Purba Bardhaman recorded the highest turnout at 92.46%. Hooghly followed with 90.34%, while Nadia stood at 90.28%.
Similarly, Howrah registered 89.44%. South 24 Parganas reported 89.74% and 89.57% across segments. North 24 Parganas also recorded strong participation.
Political battle shifts to counting day
Ultimately, the election has set up a direct contest between the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party. While the ruling party is aiming for a fourth consecutive term, the BJP is looking for a breakthrough win in the state.
With polling now complete, attention has shifted entirely to May 4, when counting will decide West Bengal’s political direction. Meanwhile, authorities remain on alert to ensure that the post-poll phase stays peaceful and stable.