Strong Voter Turnout crossing 81.98 percent and Peaceful Polling Mark Kalimpong Assembly Constituency

KalimNews, Kalimpong, April 23, 2026 : On 23 April 2026, the people of the 22 Kalimpong Legislative Assembly Constituency actively participated in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly Elections, exercising their democratic rights in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The poll percentage in Kalimpong Assembly Constituency was highly satisfactory, crossing 81 percent by 5:00 PM. Voter turnout showed steady growth throughout the day. By 9:00 AM, 18.74% of voters had cast their ballots. This increased to 39.77% by 11:00 AM and reached 59.52% by 1:00 PM. By 3:30 PM, the turnout stood at 73.13%, and by 5:00 PM, it rose to 81.98%, reflecting strong participation, although the pace slowed slightly in the afternoon.

Updated at 7.00pm: The polling trends (VTR), as reported by the Election Commission of India (ECI) through its app Polling Trends, indicate that the final voter turnout after the completion of the polling process stood at 82.91% in the Kalimpong Assembly Constituency.

Across the state, the highest voter turnout was recorded in Dakshin Dinajpur district, which achieved 94.64% participation. Among all Assembly Constituencies, Bhagawangola AC registered the highest turnout at 96.58%.

Across the state, where the first phase of elections was conducted in 16 districts covering 152 Assembly Constituencies, voter turnout reached 89.93% by 5:00 PM, indicating robust electoral engagement.

Prominent candidates were seen casting their votes at their respective polling stations. Ruden Sada Lepcha of BGPM cast his vote at Polling Station No. 73, Baidhyanidhi Primary School. Bharat Kumar Chhetri, the BJP candidate, voted at Polling Station No. 56, Pagang Gumba High School. Meanwhile, Bhernone Britto Lepcha, an independent candidate from IGJF, exercised his franchise at Polling Station No. 83, Girls’ High School.

Across the constituency, a total of 298 polling booths, including 5 auxiliary booths, were set up to facilitate voting for 201,619 registered electors. The election process began smoothly, maintained order throughout the day, and continued without any major disturbances. However, at a few polling stations—specifically Booth Nos. 22/83 and 22/89—the voting process started approximately 40 minutes later than the scheduled 7:00 AM, and at Booth No. 22/96 there was a delay after the start of voting. These delays were due to mock poll malfunctions, which were resolved shortly thereafter.

A notable highlight was the efficient management of all 65 polling stations in the district that were entirely operated by women polling officers. They carried out their responsibilities with professionalism, ensuring that the voting process proceeded seamlessly.

Strict adherence to election guidelines ensured disciplined voter movement, with no overcrowding observed inside or around polling stations, including within the restricted 100-meter perimeter. Even at sensitive and highly sensitive booths, polling was conducted successfully and without incident.

Enhanced security measures, including webcasting and the deployment of sufficient central armed forces, contributed to maintaining peace across the Hills. The presence and movement of political party cadres and leaders remained minimal, further supporting a calm atmosphere. Voters followed guidelines responsibly, arriving at polling stations, casting their votes, and leaving without gathering in groups. In most locations, queues were short, although a few booths reported minimal police presence.

Overall, the election in Kalimpong stood as an example of a peaceful, well-managed democratic exercise, marked by disciplined participation and effective administration.