Voting is underway for the second phase of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections. On April 29, 2026, voters cast ballots for 142 seats. BJP leaders, including Amit Shah, appealed to voters, especially mothers, sisters, and youth, urging maximum participation. They emphasized the importance of voting to free Bengal from fear, syndicates, and corruption.
In a message shared on social media, Shah stressed the need for widespread voter turnout. He said, “Your vote will restore Bengal’s glory and ensure the safety of women.” Shah further added that a government with a clear vision of development and the power to remove infiltrators would fulfill the aspirations of Bengal’s youth.
Key Voting Areas and Challenges for TMC and BJP
The second phase of voting is crucial, especially in southern Bengal, where the ruling TMC faces significant challenges. BJP sees this as a decisive phase in their efforts to gain a foothold in the state. Major urban centers like Kolkata, Howrah, and South 24 Parganas are witnessing long lines of voters.
This phase also marks a critical test for Mamata Banerjee’s political stronghold, Bhawanipur, where she is facing opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari. BJP’s performance here could impact the final results.
PM Modi’s Call for Women and Youth Participation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people of West Bengal to participate in large numbers. In his message, Modi said, “As citizens, it’s our duty to strengthen democracy with record voter turnout, especially from women and youth.” He emphasized that voting was not just an individual responsibility, but a contribution to building a prosperous nation.
Modi also highlighted that the youth and women’s involvement would help create a more inclusive and empowered India. He encouraged voters to actively engage in shaping their state and nation’s future.
Voting Process and Security Measures in Bengal
The election commission has deployed 2,321 companies of central forces to ensure a smooth election. Kolkata received the highest number, with 273 companies stationed in the city. Additionally, drones monitor the polling process to ensure transparency.
For the second phase, over 3.21 crore eligible voters are casting their votes at 41,001 polling stations. Of these, 1.57 crore are women, and 792 are transgender voters. The state has set up extensive monitoring systems to prevent fraud and ensure voter safety.
