West Bengal records 91.83% turnout in first phase of assembly polls, among highest since Independence

In the first phase of West Bengal’s Assembly elections, the nation witnessed an exceptional surge in public participation on Thursday, with early estimates from the Election Commission of India showing a turnout of 91.83% by 5 p.m., one of the highest ever recorded in the state. The figures, which remain provisional, reflect an unusually steady polling pattern throughout the day, including strong voter presence during typically slower afternoon hours.

The figures, recorded until 5 p.m., remain provisional and may be revised as final data is compiled.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said that both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu registered among the highest voter participation rates since India gained independence, calling the turnout a significant milestone for democratic engagement.

Among districts, Dakshin Dinajpur reported the highest turnout at 93.12%, followed by Coochbehar at 92.07% and Birbhum at 91.55%. Jalpaiguri recorded 91.2%, Murshidabad 91.36%, and Paschim Medinipur 90.7%. Other districts also showed strong voter participation, including Jhargram (90.53%), Uttar Dinajpur (89.74%), Bankura (89.91%), and Purbo Medinipur (88.55%).

Lower turnout was observed in some regions, including Kalimpong at 81.98% and Darjeeling at 86.49%. Malda recorded 89.56%, while Paschim Bardhaman reported 86.89%.

Polling trends during the day indicated sustained voter enthusiasm, particularly in the afternoon hours. Turnout rose from 62.18% at 1 p.m. to 78.77% by 3 p.m., an increase of over 16 percentage points within two hours. Election observers noted that such a surge during peak afternoon heat is unusual for the region.

By comparison, West Bengal recorded an average turnout of 63.92% during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Voting is scheduled to conclude at 6 p.m., and officials expect the final turnout figure to exceed 90% if the current trend continues.