On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised voters in West Bengal for an unprecedented turnout in the first phase of Assembly elections, describing it as a sign of democratic strength and a step towards improved governance.
In a message posted on the social media platform, Shah congratulated citizens for what he termed a historic level of participation.
“I congratulate the voters of the state for casting historic votes in the first phase in West Bengal and shattering all records of participation in the grand festival of democracy,” the Minister posted on X.
Shah also commended the Election Commission of India, personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces, and the West Bengal Police for ensuring a peaceful voting process.
The Minister added that the development signals the beginning of a new phase of governance in the state.
पश्चिम बंगाल में प्रथम चरण में ऐतिहासिक मतदान कर लोकतंत्र के महापर्व में सहभागिता के सभी रिकॉर्ड तोड़ने के लिए प्रदेश के मतदाताओं का अभिनंदन करता हूँ।
बंगाल के इतिहास के सबसे शांतिपूर्ण और सुरक्षित मतदान के लिए माननीय चुनाव आयोग, सभी केंद्रीय सुरक्षा बलों (CAPFs) के बहादुर…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 24, 2026
The first phase of polling, held on Thursday across multiple districts in both northern and southern parts of the state, recorded a turnout of around 92.6 per cent, the highest ever for an opening phase, subject to final confirmation.
The election is being closely watched as a major contest between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party.
For comparison, voter turnout in the 2021 Assembly elections stood at 82.30 per cent, held during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With over 92 per cent participation among approximately 3.6 crore registered voters this time, the current figures indicate a significant rise and mark the highest turnout recorded in the state since independence.
Election Timeline and Next Phase
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar also acknowledged the milestone, noting that West Bengal and Tamil Nadu recorded their highest polling percentages since independence and commending voters for their participation.
The second phase of polling will take place on April 29, while the counting of votes will take place on May 4.
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