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On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to participate actively as the first phase of the Assembly elections got underway in West Bengal.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers.”
Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 23, 2026
Polling began at 7:00 AM across 152 constituencies spread over 16 districts. This marks the opening stage of a closely watched electoral contest.
Early in the day, voters were seen lining up outside polling stations, indicating steady participation in the initial hours.
Around 3.6 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, deciding the fate of 1,478 candidates. The constituencies are distributed across north and south Bengal, reflecting varied regional dynamics.
Security has been significantly strengthened for the polls. The Election Commission of India has deployed over 2,400 companies of Central Armed Police Forces to ensure smooth and peaceful voting.
The election is being conducted in two phases this time. This marks a reduction compared to previous years. The second phase will cover the remaining constituencies on April 29, and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
The main contest is between the ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is seeking to expand its presence in the state.
Also Read: West Bengal Assembly Elections Phase 1 Polling Begins Across 152 Constituencies
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