Record turnout in Bengal polls

The record-breaking participation follows a controversial special intensive revision (SIR) exercise that removed millions of voters from the rolls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed the high turnout signals a 'wave of change' against TMC corruption, while Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee vowed to counter the BJP's influence beyond the state.

Female voter turnout also reached historic highs, surpassing male participation in several districts.

The outcome is seen as a critical test for the BJP's expansion into India's eastern heartland.