West Bengal and Tamil Nadu recorded unprecedented voter turnout in assembly elections as millions participated in polling across both states, marking one of the highest participation levels in recent history.
West Bengal and Tamil Nadu witnessed record voter participation on Thursday as assembly elections saw millions of voters turning up across both states.
In West Bengal, the first phase of polling across 152 constituencies recorded around 89.93% turnout by 5 PM. Dakshin Dinajpur reported one of the highest participation levels at over 93%, reflecting strong voter engagement across 16 districts covering nearly 3.6 crore eligible voters.
Also Read
In Tamil Nadu, voter turnout reached 84.29%, surpassing previous records and marking the highest participation in the state’s electoral history. Salem district led with over 88% turnout, while Chennai also recorded strong participation at more than 81%.
The Election Commission of India noted that turnout figures rose steadily throughout the day as voters continued to arrive before polling closed. Analysts suggested that heightened political competition and recent controversies around electoral roll revisions may have contributed to the surge in participation.
While Tamil Nadu polling remained largely peaceful, West Bengal saw sporadic incidents of violence, including clashes between political party workers and isolated attacks near polling booths. Security forces were deployed in large numbers to maintain order.
Counting of votes for both states is scheduled for May 4, with West Bengal set to complete its remaining phase later this month.
Published: 23 Apr 2026, 08:23 pm IST
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.