Voters in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal turned out in droves, shattering post-independence records and delighting the Election Commission of India. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar praised the ‘bumper turnout’ as the highest ever in these states since 1947, reflecting deep-rooted faith in the electoral process.
The single-phase election in Tamil Nadu covered 234 seats, while West Bengal’s first phase spanned 152 constituencies. Official data until 6 PM showed Tamil Nadu at 84.64% and West Bengal at a phenomenal 91.74%, signaling robust public involvement.
‘Despite challenges, this is the highest voting percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since independence. ECI salutes all voters,’ Kumar remarked, highlighting the achievement amid logistical feats.
West Bengal’s district-wise breakdown revealed exceptional numbers: South Dinajpur (94.77%), Cooch Behar (94.40%), Birbhum (93.61%), Jalpaiguri (93.01%), Malda (92.22%), Murshidabad (92.88%), North Dinajpur (92.04%), and Jhargram (91.78%). Strong showings came from Alipurduar, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, and Purba Medinipur (89-91%), with Darjeeling at 88.01% and Kalimpong at 82.93%.
In Tamil Nadu, rural enthusiasm drove highs in Karur (92.28%), Salem (90.38%), Erode (89.93%), and Dharmapuri (89.99%). Districts like Namakkal, Tiruppur, Tirupattur, and Vellore ranged 85-89%, while cities such as Chennai, Madurai, and Tirunelveli maintained respectable levels.
No major incidents marred the peaceful conduct, thanks to heightened security in sensitive areas. The sight of serpentine lines at booths illustrates rising voter awareness, promising a more representative mandate and reinforcing democracy’s strength in diverse India.
