Mallikarjun Kharge Appeals For High Turnout In West Bengal Phase 2 Voting
Kharge urges voters in Bengal to participate actively, warning against threats to democratic rights.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday urged voters in West Bengal to participate in large numbers as the state’s second phase of Assembly elections got underway. In his appeal, he called the election a crucial moment to “stand up against forces that seek to undermine your rights,” while encouraging citizens to exercise their democratic franchise without fear or intimidation.
In a post on social media platform X, Kharge emphasized that voters should support “progressive values, development, harmony, and amity,” adding that West Bengal has historically played a leading role in driving meaningful social and political change. He specifically appealed to young and first-time voters, describing their participation as essential to preserving democratic traditions in the state.
The Congress leader also framed the ongoing polling as a broader political and ideological contest, urging citizens to respond firmly to any attempt to weaken their rights. His remarks come amid a highly charged electoral atmosphere, where multiple parties have been campaigning aggressively across constituencies in the state.
Also Read: PM Modi Appeals to Citizens to Stay Vigilant Amid West Asia Tensions
Meanwhile, voting for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections began at 7 a.m. across 142 constituencies spread over six districts, including Kolkata. Initial reports indicated a voter turnout of around 18.39 per cent by 9 a.m., with election officials noting steady participation, particularly among women and young voters.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) highlighted encouraging early trends, sharing visuals of long queues at polling stations in North 24 Parganas and other districts. Officials described the high participation of women voters as a positive sign for democratic engagement during the “festival of democracy.”
However, the polling process also witnessed sporadic tension in certain areas from the early hours. In South Kolkata’s Bhabanipur constituency, security personnel intervened after the Chief Minister’s brother, Kartik Banerjee, was cautioned for gathering with supporters near a police station beyond permitted limits. Despite such incidents, authorities maintained that polling arrangements were functioning under strict security protocols to ensure peaceful voting across the state.
Also Read: PM Modi Confident BJP Will Form West Bengal Government After Elections
