West Bengal elections: Polling underway for 43 constituencies in sixth phase of Assembly polls

Polling began at 7 am on Thursday for 43 seats in the sixth phase of the assembly election in West Bengal amid a surge in Covid-19 cases with the state reporting record infections. Long queues were seen outside most of the polling boths even before the voting began.

In this phase, elections are being held in 17 seats in the North 24 Parganas district and nine seats in Nadia -- most of which have a significant presence of the Matuas, who are crucial to the electoral success of any party in the state.

17.19% voter turnout recorded till 9.30 am in the sixth phase of West Bengal Assembly elections.

Over 1 crore voters will decide the fate of 306 candidates in this phase of elections.

Security has been increased in the state in view of the violence in previous phases of the elections. During the fourth on April 17, four people were killed as central security force personnel opened fire at a polling booth in Cooch Behar after some local residents allegedly clashed with them.

A staggering 1,071 companies of central forces have been deployed in this phase to ensure free and fair voting, officials said.

Each company of central force has around 100 personnel and officers.

The Election Commission denied Trinamool Congress’ request to club the remaining phases of voting in view of the coronavirus situation, saying that it was not feasible since polls were planned well in advance. However, the Election Commission said it will ensure that coronavirus-related safety rules are followed during the voting.

Polling will continue till 6.30 pm, officials said. 

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• 43 constituencies
• Polling
• Voting
• West Bengal elections
• sixth phase
• underway
• Assembly polls