What was the voter turnout in the Kaliganj Assembly bypolls?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Voter turnout for the Kaliganj bypolls was 45.3% by 1 p.m.
- The polling process remained peaceful despite minor disturbances.
- The bypoll was necessitated by the passing of former legislator Nasiruddin Ahmed.
- Election monitoring was conducted by the Election Commission and CAPF.
- Counting of votes is set for June 23.
Kolkata, June 19 (NationPress) During the bypolls for the Kaliganj Assembly constituency located in the Nadia district of West Bengal, a voting percentage of 45.3% was noted by 1 p.m. on Thursday.
Despite some minor disturbances in the initial hour after polling commenced at 7 a.m., the overall electoral process has remained peaceful. This is attributed to the vigilant oversight by the officials nominated by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the swift response by personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
Political analysts monitoring general voting trends in West Bengal suggest that while this percentage may be lower than that observed during general elections, it is fairly typical for by-elections in the region.
“Typically, voter interest in by-elections is less enthusiastic compared to general elections, as the outcomes do not significantly alter government dynamics. Thus, a 45.3% turnout by 1 p.m. aligns with expected bypoll participation,” remarked a political analyst based in the city.
A minor controversy surfaced when BJP candidate Ashish Ghosh, after voting, posed for cameras. In several recordings, the election ink was visibly applied to the middle finger of his left hand, contrary to the standard practice of marking the forefinger.
The office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has requested a report from the Nadia district magistrate, who also serves as the district election officer.
Kaliganj is among five Assembly constituencies across four states conducting bypolls this Thursday.
The need for the bypoll in Kaliganj arose following the passing of former Trinamool Congress legislator Nasiruddin Ahmed in February of this year at the age of 70.
The counting of votes is scheduled for June 23.