Amit Shah Urges Record Voting to Build ‘Sonar Bangla’ as Polling Continues

New Delhi, April 2026 : As polling for the second and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections progressed on Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah called upon voters to turn out in large numbers and “liberate” the state from what he described as a rule marked by fear, syndicates, and corruption.

In a message posted on social media platform X, Shah made a strong appeal, particularly to women and young voters, to exercise their democratic rights enthusiastically. He said that every vote would contribute to restoring the state’s “lost glory” and ensuring better safety and opportunities, especially for women and youth. Emphasising development and governance, he urged citizens to vote in record numbers for the vision of a “Sonar Bangla.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy also appealed to the people of West Bengal to step out and vote. He encouraged first-time voters and the youth to actively participate in the electoral process, stressing that each vote plays a vital role in shaping the future and strengthening democracy. He linked the idea of a developed West Bengal with the broader goal of a “Viksit Bharat.”

Meanwhile, polling began at 7 a.m. across 142 Assembly constituencies spread over six districts, including the state capital Kolkata. The voting process is being conducted under heavy security deployment, although minor tensions were reported in certain areas during the initial hours.

In the high-profile Bhabanipur constituency in south Kolkata, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contesting against Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, central forces cautioned Kartik Banerjee, the Chief Minister’s brother, for gathering near a police station with more people than permitted. Officials reminded him that only four individuals are allowed to assemble near polling stations at a time.

Another incident was reported from the nearby Rashbehari constituency, where brief tension arose following allegations by the Congress that their booth agents were prevented from entering a polling booth. The party accused workers of the ruling All India Trinamool Congress of engaging in disruptive activities.

Despite these isolated incidents, polling continues under strict monitoring, with authorities aiming to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process across the state.