Calm Prevails in Bengal Re-Polling; Over 16% Voter Turnout in Early Hours

Kolkata — Re-polling across 15 booths in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district has remained peaceful so far, with voters turning out steadily in the early hours of Saturday.

Polling began at 7 a.m. under tight security, with central forces deployed alongside state police personnel to ensure smooth conduct. By 9 a.m., the average voter turnout across all 15 booths stood at 16.23 per cent.

In the Magrahat Paschim Assembly constituency, which accounts for 11 of the booths, turnout reached 16.58 per cent. Meanwhile, the remaining four booths in Diamond Harbour Assembly constituency recorded a slightly lower turnout of 15.83 per cent, according to data from the Chief Electoral Officer’s office.

Voters at several polling stations reported a calm atmosphere, with no signs of unrest or tension. However, some residents in Magrahat (Paschim) questioned the need for re-polling, stating they had not witnessed any disturbances during the original voting held on April 29.

Polling is scheduled to continue until 6 p.m., though authorities have clarified that voters already in queues by closing time will be allowed to cast their ballots.

The re-polling follows the second phase of the state Assembly elections conducted on April 29. The two-phase elections in West Bengal were held on April 23 and April 29, covering all 294 constituencies.

Counting of votes is set for May 4, with results expected the same day.

With inputs from IANS