Kolkata, April 23: The first phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly elections is underway across 152 seats in 16 districts. During this time, international representatives visited several polling stations in Darjeeling district on Thursday, inspecting the ongoing voting process alongside officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The polling stations visited by the international delegates included several booths in Siliguri and one in Matigara.
In a social media statement released by the ECI, it was noted, “They appreciated the efficient management of the elections and the festive atmosphere. They also commended the webcasting arrangements at polling stations and the minimum facilities such as wheelchairs, drinking water, shade, and seating for elderly and disabled voters.”
Reports indicate that a 13-member delegation from countries and organizations including Namibia, Georgia, Nepal, the Philippines, Switzerland, Kenya, and the International IDEA is currently in West Bengal under the ECI’s International Election Visitor Program (IEVP), observing the first phase of the Assembly elections.
According to the commission, the IEVP aims to showcase the country’s best electoral practices and strengthen collaboration with electoral management bodies worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, is visiting polling stations in his home constituency of Nandigram in East Midnapore, where he is contesting again this election.
Speaking to the media, he noted that unlike previous elections, supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress have not disrupted the voting process so far.
He stated, “In past elections, the ruling party’s workers would intimidate voters, often starting the night before voting. However, this time, due to tight security, they have not been able to do so. I hope this situation continues on voting day, ensuring a peaceful election.”
In addition to Nandigram, Adhikari is also contesting from the Bhawanipur Assembly seat in South Kolkata, where he faces Trinamool Congress candidate and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Voting in Bhawanipur will take place in the second phase on April 29.
Prominent leaders and candidates from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including fashion designer-turned-politician Agnimitra Paul and former national vice president Dilip Ghosh, also cast their votes early Thursday morning before beginning their tours of various areas.
So far, the voting has remained peaceful, and security forces appear to be fully alert.
Leave a Comment