Kolkata, April 28 (IANS) West Bengal Governor RN Ravi on Tuesday appealed to the people of the state to enthusiastically participate in the second and final phase of voting on April 29.​

The Governor urged voters, especially the youth, women, and first-time electors, to turn out in large numbers and strengthen democracy.​

In a statement, Governor Ravi said that as the next and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place on Wednesday, he calls upon all voters to participate enthusiastically in this festival of democracy. The statement was shared by Lok Bhavan, West Bengal.​

He particularly urged the youth, women, and first-time voters to come out in record numbers and cast their votes.​

He said that every vote is crucial in shaping the future of West Bengal and strengthening democracy and the rule of law.​

Polling for the second and final phase of the Assembly elections will be held on Wednesday across 142 constituencies.​

It includes the high-profile Bhabanipur seat from where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contesting. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari is contesting against Mamata Banerjee from this high-profile seat.​

The first phase of polling, held on April 23 across 152 constituencies, recorded a voter turnout of 93.19 per cent, the highest ever in the state.​

Vote counting will be held on May 4.​

Lok Bhavan, West Bengal, on Monday said that a 24×7 Citizen Helpline, established to ensure free, fair, and fear-free conduct of the Assembly elections and to ensure every elector’s participation in the democratic process, will remain operational till May 10.​

Lok Bhavan said that the dedicated 24×7 Citizen Helpline, established to assist voters and address concerns related to the ongoing Assembly election process, has been receiving representations from citizens across the state.​

The Lok Bhavan has informed that citizens may contact the dedicated 24×7 helpline at the following numbers: 033-2200-1022, 033-2200-1023, 033-2200-1025, 033-2200-1026, 033-2200-1027, 033-2200-1028, 033-2200-1029, 033-2200-1032, and 033-2200-1036 or email at lokbhavanbengalhelpline@gmail.com.​

All representations will be handled with due sensitivity and utmost confidentiality.​

–IANS

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