The second and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 commenced on April 29, covering 142 out of 294 constituencies and involving nearly 3.21 crore voters.
Polling remained largely peaceful and orderly, with a turnout of 61.11% recorded in the first six hours—slightly lower than the first phase but significantly higher than comparable figures from the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Several prominent figures from the Bengali film industry participated enthusiastically, encouraging citizens to vote.
Actors Srabanti Chatterjee and Prosenjit Chatterjee cast their votes and highlighted the importance of democratic participation. Prosenjit expressed happiness as his son voted for the first time.
Veteran actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty voted in Belgachia, choosing to stand in line like any other citizen.
Actor and TMC MP Dev also cast his vote, declining special treatment and waiting in queue.
Other celebrities who exercised their franchise included Manali Dey, Gargi Roy Choudhury, and Debdut Ghosh, who voted in different parts of Kolkata.
With shooting schedules paused, parts of Tollygunge—hub of the Bengali entertainment industry—observed an “unofficial holiday” as actors turned up at polling booths.
District-wise, East Burdwan recorded the highest turnout at 66.80%, followed by Hooghly, Nadia, and Howrah. Kolkata (Uttar and Dakshin), along with North and South 24 Parganas, reported moderate participation.
A total of 1,448 candidates, including 220 women, are contesting across more than 41,000 polling stations, with over 8,000 booths managed entirely by women.
Despite sporadic allegations of disturbances, including claims of voter intimidation in South 24 Parganas and an EVM-related issue in Falta, no major violence or casualties were reported.
Swift action by security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force, ensured voters could safely reach polling booths.
The Election Commission of India has ordered an inquiry into reported irregularities.
Overall, tight security, extensive monitoring by observers, and active citizen participation contributed to a smooth voting process.
The results of the elections will be announced on May 4, along with outcomes from other states, marking the conclusion of a crucial electoral exercise in West Bengal. (Agencies)
