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The second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 witnessed a strong voter turnout of 89.99 per cent by 5 PM on Wednesday, according to data released by the Election Commission of India.
Among districts, Purba Bardhaman reported the highest participation at 92.46 per cent. Hooghly followed with 90.34 per cent, while Nadia recorded 90.28 per cent. Howrah saw 89.44 per cent turnout, and both North and South 24 Parganas remained close to the 90 per cent mark.
Political parties expressed confidence as the high turnout continued to shape expectations.
In the first phase held on April 23, voter participation had reached 91.78 per cent, setting a high benchmark.
This phase, covering 142 of the state’s 294 constituencies, is considered crucial, particularly as it includes several strongholds of the ruling party in South Bengal and Kolkata.
More than 2.22 crore voters were eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, including over 1.64 crore men and about 1.57 crore women.
Key contests are drawing close attention in constituencies such as Bhabanipur and Tollyganj, where major political leaders are in the fray.
The primary contest in the state remains between the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
In the previous Assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress had secured a dominant position in these constituencies, winning 123 out of 142 seats.
For the BJP, the focus remains on expanding its support base in urban areas and among specific communities, while the ruling party aims to retain its hold and secure another term.
Exit polls are likely after voting concludes at 6 PM, while officials will count the votes on May 4.
Also Read: Voter Turnout At 03:00 PM: West Bengal At 78.68% In Phase 2
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