West Bengal Assembly Elections Phase 1 Polling Begins Across 152 Constituencies

Polling commenced on Thursday across 152 constituencies in 16 districts of West Bengal, marking the opening stage of the state’s assembly elections.

Observers are closely watching the first phase as it sets the tone for the wider contest.

Approximately 3.6 crore voters are eligible to participate, choosing from 1,478 candidates. Northern and southern regions divide the constituencies, reflecting the state’s varied political landscape.

Security arrangements have been intensified, with the Election Commission deploying about 2,407 companies of Central Armed Police Forces. This level of deployment is unusually large for a state election and aims to ensure strict adherence to polling rules.

Unlike previous elections, the schedule has been shortened significantly. Voting will take place in just two phases this time, compared with eight phases in 2021 and six in 2016.

Political competition is likely to be particularly strong in roughly 80 constituencies. In these areas, the ruling Trinamool Congress faces a direct challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In several other seats, contests may involve multiple parties, including Left groups, Congress, and smaller organisations.

The districts voting in this phase include Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Paschim Bardhaman, Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, Paschim Medinipur, and Purba Medinipur.

Observers will be monitoring turnout trends in sensitive areas such as minority-dominated regions and tea garden belts. More than 7,300 polling stations are critical, and Quick Reaction Teams stand stationed nearby to handle any disruptions.

The Trinamool Congress is aiming to maintain its strong performance from the last election, particularly in rural and minority-heavy areas. The BJP, however, is focusing on strengthening its position in North Bengal and key districts, hoping to build momentum early in the election.

The outcome of this phase is likely to offer early indications of how the broader contest may unfold.

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