Kolkata: Polling commenced early Wednesday across key regions of West Bengal in the second and concluding phase of the Assembly elections, with 142 seats going to the polls amid tight security and intense political competition.
Voting began at 7 am, with long queues seen at polling stations in major districts including Kolkata, Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Nadia and Purba Bardhaman. These regions are considered crucial in determining the overall outcome of the election.
The contest in this phase is particularly significant as it focuses on areas traditionally seen as strongholds of the ruling All India Trinamool Congress. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party is aiming to make inroads and challenge the ruling party’s dominance in these districts.
Authorities have deployed extensive security arrangements, including central forces, to ensure smooth and peaceful polling. Election officials reported steady voter turnout in the initial hours, with people from various age groups arriving early to cast their ballots.
Meanwhile, Narendra Modi urged citizens to participate enthusiastically in the democratic process. In a message, he encouraged voters—especially women and young people—to come out in large numbers and exercise their franchise.
With this phase covering a significant portion of the state’s electorate, political observers believe the results could play a decisive role in shaping the future government in West Bengal.
