Elections – Voting Under Tight Security Begins Across Key West Bengal Seats
Elections – Polling commenced early Wednesday morning across 142 assembly constituencies spread over six districts of West Bengal, including the state capital Kolkata, marking the second phase of the ongoing Assembly elections. Voting began at 7 a.m., with authorities reporting generally orderly arrangements despite isolated incidents of tension in a few locations during the initial hours.
Early Hours Marked by Minor Tensions
Shortly after voting began, scattered reports of unease surfaced in certain areas. In the Bhabanipur constituency of South Kolkata, where a closely watched contest is underway, central security personnel intervened when Kartik Banerjee, brother of the Chief Minister, gathered near a police station with more people than permitted. Officials reminded him of the restriction limiting gatherings to four individuals near polling locations, ensuring compliance with election regulations.
Nearby, in the Rashbehari constituency, tensions briefly escalated after allegations were raised by Congress representatives. They claimed that their booth agents were prevented from entering a polling station by workers affiliated with the ruling party. The situation led to accusations of misconduct, though authorities moved swiftly to address the matter and maintain order.
Leaders Urge Voter Participation
Amid the polling process, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon citizens to actively participate in the democratic exercise. In a message shared on social media, he encouraged voters across all 142 constituencies to turn out in large numbers. He particularly emphasized the importance of participation by women and young voters, highlighting their role in strengthening democratic engagement.
Security Measures Intensified Across Districts
The second phase of voting is being conducted under heightened security arrangements. A significant deployment of central forces has been made to ensure peaceful polling. These include personnel from Central Armed Police Forces, the India Reserve Battalion, and additional armed units from other states, working alongside the West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police.
Authorities have implemented comprehensive monitoring systems, including webcasting at all polling stations. This step aims to enhance transparency and allow real-time observation of proceedings, reducing the likelihood of irregularities.
Protests and Technical Delays Reported
In Hooghly district’s Singur area, tensions had already been building since the previous night. A protest was staged outside a local police station by outgoing legislator Bencharam Manna, who alleged excesses by security personnel. The demonstration contributed to a charged atmosphere in the region, though polling proceeded under close supervision.
Meanwhile, in Nadia district’s Santipur constituency, voting at one polling booth was delayed due to a malfunction in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). Officials addressed the issue, and voting resumed after necessary checks were completed.
Polling Spread Across Six Districts
Apart from Kolkata, voting in this phase is being conducted across North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Howrah, Nadia, and East Burdwan districts. Election officials confirmed that mock polling exercises were carried out at all booths before the start of voting to ensure machines were functioning correctly.
Despite minor disruptions, authorities expressed confidence in the overall conduct of the elections. With robust security arrangements and monitoring mechanisms in place, efforts continue to ensure that voters can exercise their franchise freely and safely.