Kolkata

As polling for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections concluded, Union Home Minister Amit Shah intensified his criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), posting a symbolic sunset video to suggest the party’s political decline.

In a message shared on X, Shah wrote that the “sun has set” on what he described as the TMC’s era of corruption and violence. The post was also shared in Bengali.

His remarks came as voting wrapped up across several constituencies in the first phase, which witnessed a notably high voter turnout. According to data released by the Election Commission of India, polling recorded approximately 91.83 per cent participation.

The turnout reflects strong voter engagement, with polling conducted under extensive security arrangements across the state.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar praised voters for their enthusiastic participation, calling it a celebration of democracy. He noted that both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu recorded among their highest-ever voter turnouts since Independence.

For comparison, West Bengal had registered around 85.2 per cent turnout during the 2021 Assembly elections, indicating a significant increase this time.

In related by-elections, Gujarat’s Umreth constituency recorded a turnout of 58.59 per cent, while Maharashtra’s Rahuri and Baramati constituencies saw voter participation of 54.96 per cent and 56.72 per cent, respectively.

READ MORE: West Bengal Polls: In first phase, 152 seats outcome crucial for Mamata, BJP

Polling for the remaining constituencies in West Bengal is scheduled for May 29, while counting of votes will take place on May 4.