On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi credited the Election Commission of India. He said it conducted largely peaceful polling during the first phase of Assembly elections in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
Addressing a rally in Krishnanagar in Nadia district, which will vote in the next phase, PM Modi said the reduced incidents of violence marked a shift from previous elections.
“There has been less violence this time so far. Earlier, people were hanged, and the ruling party claimed it was suicide. I congratulate the Election Commission of India,” the Prime Minister stated.
PM Modi also highlighted the strong turnout, noting that voters were standing in long queues despite the heat.
“The manner in which the polling is going on, and the enthusiasm with which the voters are voting, it seems all records will be broken this time,” he asserted, while also appreciating the role of government staff in maintaining order during the process.
Without naming Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the Prime Minister criticised the ruling Trinamool Congress over governance issues and public dissatisfaction.
Referring to a recent campaign moment involving a local snack, PM Modi said, “I heard that my jhalmuri matter jolted some people here. The funny thing is that I consumed Jhalmuri, and the Trinamool Congress felt the heat,” adding that his party expects to celebrate after the results are announced on May 4.
The Prime Minister described the current election as a contest between the people and the ruling party. He said it was not a traditional political fight.
PM Modi also claimed that various sections of society, including professionals and public servants, were voting without fear.
The first phase of polling covered 152 constituencies, with the remaining seats set to vote on April 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 4.
Also Read: Voter Turnout At 01:00 PM: West Bengal At 61.18%, Tamil Nadu At 56.81%
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