The final phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 concluded at 6 pm on Wednesday, recording an impressive voter turnout of around 90 per cent before the close of voting, reported the ANI.
The strong turnout reflects high public engagement as polling for all 294 seats of the state assembly came to an end. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
Among districts, Purba Bardhaman reported the highest turnout at 92.46 per cent, followed by Hooghly (90.34 per cent), Nadia (90.28 per cent) and Howrah (89.44 per cent), according to the ANI.
North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas also recorded turnout close to 90 per cent, indicating widespread participation across the state, the news agency reported.
TMC vs BJP in high-stakes battle
The election is primarily a contest between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is aiming for a breakthrough in the state.
The ruling party is seeking a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP is attempting to expand its presence, particularly in south Bengal and urban constituencies.
Several prominent leaders exercised their franchise during the day, including Mamata Banerjee, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, and TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
Other notable figures included BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya and TMC MP Mitali Bag.
Clashes reported
The polling process saw isolated incidents of tension and clashes between rival party workers. Allegations of intimidation and attacks were traded between the two main parties, reported the ANI.
In Bhabanipur, Suvendu Adhikari claimed he was surrounded by TMC supporters, while BJP candidate Ratna Debnath alleged threats and abuse during voting in Panihati.
Clashes were also reported at a polling station in Khanakul, though officials said voting resumed peacefully after brief disruptions. In Nadia district’s Hatra Bazaar area, tensions led to arrests following a clash between party workers, according to the ANI.
Key constituencies in focus
The second phase covered 142 constituencies, including high-profile seats such as Bhabanipur and Tollygunge.
These areas are seen as crucial battlegrounds, especially as they form part of the ruling party’s traditional strongholds.
Around 3.21 crore voters were eligible to vote in this phase, including over 1.57 crore women and 792 transgender voters.
Polling was conducted at more than 41,000 stations, with extensive security arrangements, including central forces and all-women polling teams at several booths.
With polling now complete, attention shifts to the counting of votes on May 4, which will determine whether the party makes significant gains in the state.
(with ANI inputs)