Kolkata woke up to a tense and decisive morning as counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections began under heavy security arrangements. With political stakes at their peak, authorities have turned the city into a virtual fortress to ensure that the counting process remains peaceful and transparent.
Across key counting centres in Kolkata, multi-layered security has been deployed. Central forces, state police, and rapid action units are stationed both inside and outside the premises. Barricades have been put in place, and entry is being strictly regulated, allowing only authorised personnel, candidates, and counting agents.
Officials confirmed that counting began at 8 AM, starting with postal ballots, followed by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Each round of counting is being closely monitored, with CCTV surveillance and live updates ensuring transparency. The Election Commission has issued strict guidelines to prevent any disruption, especially in sensitive constituencies.
The heightened security comes amid reports of political tension between rival party workers. Supporters of major political parties have gathered outside various centres, raising slogans and closely tracking early trends. However, police presence has so far kept the situation under control.
In areas considered politically sensitive, additional forces have been deployed, and quick response teams are on standby. Senior officials are conducting regular inspections to ensure that protocols are being followed without any lapses. Drone surveillance is also being used in certain zones to monitor crowd movement and prevent escalation.
The elections in West Bengal have been fiercely contested, with campaigning marked by high-pitched rhetoric and intense competition. Issues such as governance, development, law and order, and identity politics dominated the political narrative, making this election one of the most closely watched in recent times.
Early trends are expected to emerge by late morning, while clearer results will take shape as counting progresses through the day. Political observers believe that several constituencies may witness tight margins, which could delay final declarations in some seats.
As the counting continues, the focus remains firmly on maintaining peace and respecting the democratic process. Authorities have appealed to citizens and party workers to avoid spreading rumours and to rely only on official updates.
By evening, the state is expected to have a clearer picture of its political future, as West Bengal decides who will lead it in the next term.
