Kolkata Police announced a ban on victory processions, rallies, and public celebrations across the city on May 4, coinciding with the counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections. The move is aimed at maintaining order and reducing the potential for disruption as the votes are counted. This decision was communicated through an official notification delivered by local authorities.

The police specifically mandated that no political party or organisation could engage in public celebrations on the designated day. The necessity of these measures arises from the critical nature of the counting process, with heightened political sensitivity and increased security protocols in place to ensure a peaceful environment throughout the day.

Conditions for Future Processions

According to the police order, any victory processions may only occur on May 5 or later, contingent upon obtaining prior approval from the Officer-in-Charge of the respective police station. These processions must conform strictly to established regulations and guidelines set forth by law enforcement.

Furthermore, all conditions associated with the granted permissions must be adhered to, in order to facilitate orderly celebrations. Authorities have reiterated that any deviations from the prescribed rules will result in legal action in accordance with relevant legal provisions. Police officers are instructed to maintain vigilance to ensure compliance with these directives.

The prohibition focuses on sustaining calm and avoiding any incidents that could arise during the decisive counting phase, stressing the local authorities’ commitment to preserving law and order in Kolkata.

Current Election Results Scenario

As the counting progressed, the preliminary results indicated that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was leading in 173 constituencies, whereas the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) was ahead in 85. Smaller parties such as the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (BGPM), the Ajeya Bharat Party (AJUP), and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) were also reported to be leading in one seat each.

The counting process remains active, and formal results are yet to be announced by the Election Commission of India. The state recorded an unprecedented voter turnout of 91.66 per cent during Phase-II of the Assembly elections, establishing a new record since independence. The initial phase also showcased impressive participation of 93.19 per cent, culminating in an overall turnout of 92.47 per cent.

In the previous Assembly elections of 2021, the Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee, achieved a substantial victory, winning 213 out of 294 seats with approximately a 48 per cent vote share. In contrast, the BJP positioned itself as the main opposition party with 77 seats and around 38 per cent of the votes, significantly improving its previous count. The alliance between the Left and Congress failed to secure any seats in that election.

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