New Delhi, Apr 23 (PTI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday urged the people of West Bengal to vote in large numbers and ensure that the ideals of democracy, social justice, equality, and freedom remain intact.
In a post on X, Kharge said, “As West Bengal votes in the first phase of Assembly elections today, I sincerely urge all citizens to step out and participate in large numbers. Do not be deterred by forces that seek to discourage you.” “Your vote is your voice, and it must be resoundingly heard,” he said.
Urging the people of the state to follow the path shown by the Constitution and uphold the spirit of democracy, the Congress chief said, “West Bengal is the proud land of great leaders who stood for Democracy, social justice, equality, and freedom. We need to ensure those ideals remain intact.” “I make a special appeal to the first-time voters – exercise your right with conviction and help ensure that true development reaches every corner of the state. Jai Hind. Jai Bangla,” Kharge said in his post.
Voting for 152 seats in the first phase of Bengal elections began on Thursday morning amid unprecedented security arrangements in a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest.
Polling started at 7 am with voters queuing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the north to Murshidabad, Nadia, Birbhum and Hooghly in the south.
The opening round covers more than half of the state’s 294 Assembly seats.
According to the Election Commission, more than 3.60 crore electors are eligible to vote in this phase, including around 1.75 crore women and 465 third-gender voters.
A record 2,450 companies of central paramilitary forces, comprising nearly 2.5 lakh personnel, have been deployed across the state for the polls, with over 8,000 polling stations identified as ‘highly sensitive’.
The Congress is fighting the elections solo, taking on the ruling Trinamool Congress, the main opposition BJP, and the Left.
The second phase of elections would take place on April 29, and counting of votes would be taken up on May 4. PTI ASK ARI
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