Modi Hails High Turnout in Bengal Polls, Expresses Confidence in NDA Wins Across Five States

Hardoi, April 2026: Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 as a “significant moment” for Indian democracy, citing reports of a strong voter turnout and what he called a “fearless” participation by the electorate.

Addressing a large public gathering in Hardoi after inaugurating the Ganga Expressway, the Prime Minister said that visuals and reports from West Bengal indicated enthusiastic public participation. He noted that, much like the first phase, voters were turning out in large numbers, with long queues seen at polling booths across the state.

“Reports emerging from the ground suggest that Bengal is witnessing a massive turnout. People are stepping out of their homes in large numbers to exercise their franchise,” Modi said, expressing gratitude to the voters for actively participating in the democratic process.

Highlighting what he termed a major shift in the electoral environment, Modi said voting in the state was taking place without fear, calling it a “sacred symbol” of the Constitution and a reflection of the country’s strengthening democratic framework. He remarked that such an atmosphere had been difficult to imagine in previous decades, and urged voters to continue participating with the same enthusiasm until polling concludes.

The second phase of polling is underway in 142 constituencies spread across six districts and the state capital, Kolkata. The districts include North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Howrah, Nadia and East Burdwan. Voting is being conducted under heavy security, with over 2,400 companies of central forces deployed alongside state police to ensure a smooth and peaceful process.

Beyond West Bengal, Modi expressed confidence in the electoral prospects of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the ongoing Assembly elections across multiple states. He said the alliance was poised to secure “historic” victories in Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and Puducherry.

Referring to recent electoral successes, the Prime Minister highlighted the BJP-led alliance’s performance in Bihar and the party’s strong showing in local body elections in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. He said these outcomes reflected growing public support and confidence in the party’s governance model.

Modi added that the results of the ongoing Assembly elections, scheduled to be declared on May 4, would further strengthen the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). He emphasised that sustained infrastructure development, such as the Ganga Expressway, would play a key role in accelerating economic growth and improving connectivity across regions.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reiterated the importance of public participation in elections, urging voters to continue exercising their democratic rights and contribute to the nation’s progress through active engagement in the electoral process.