Amit Shah Urges Record Turnout In Bengal Polls, Calls For ‘Sonar Bangla’

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday urged voters in West Bengal to turn out in large numbers and cast what he described as a “record vote” for a “Sonar Bangla” as the state’s second phase of Assembly elections got underway. In a post on social media platform X, Shah called on citizens—especially women, youth, and first-time voters—to participate actively in the electoral process.

Shah framed his appeal around a broader political message, stating that voters should help “liberate Bengal from the rule of fear, syndicates, and corruption.” He said that a single vote could contribute to restoring the state’s development trajectory and ensuring greater safety and security for women. He also emphasized that strong voter participation would strengthen efforts to address issues such as infiltration and governance challenges.

In his message, Shah urged voters to support the vision of a “Sonar Bangla,” a term often used to describe a prosperous and developed West Bengal. He argued that such a transformation would require a government committed to development as well as firm administrative resolve. His remarks come amid a highly competitive electoral environment where major political parties are aggressively campaigning across constituencies.

Also Read: ECI Reports Rs 510 Crore Seizure Of Cash, Liquor And Freebies In Bengal Polls

Alongside Shah’s appeal, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy also encouraged voters to participate enthusiastically in the democratic process. He urged citizens to choose progress and contribute to building a “Viksit Bengal” as part of the broader national vision of a developed India. Reddy particularly called on young and first-time voters to step forward and strengthen democratic participation.

Meanwhile, polling for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections began at 7 a.m. across 142 constituencies in six districts, including Kolkata. The voting process witnessed early reports of tension in certain areas, with security forces deployed in large numbers to ensure peaceful conduct of the elections under strict monitoring arrangements.

In South Kolkata’s Bhabanipur constituency, security personnel intervened after the Chief Minister’s brother, Kartik Banerjee, was cautioned for gathering with more than the permitted number of supporters near a polling area. In another incident in the nearby Rashbehari constituency, allegations emerged that ruling party workers were preventing opposition booth agents from entering polling stations, with the Congress party accusing them of intimidation. Authorities have stated that polling is being closely monitored to ensure order and fairness throughout the day.

Also Read: PM Modi To Launch BJP's Bengal Poll Campaign From Cooch Behar