New Delhi, April 23 -- The voter turnout in the ongoing Assembly polling gathered strong momentum by 3 PM on Thursday, with West Bengal leading the charts at an impressive 78.77% turnout rate, significantly outpacing Tamil Nadu, which recorded a 70.00% turnout, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI).

The high participation levels signal robust voter engagement across both states, with several districts in West Bengal crossing the 80% mark well before polling hours conclude at 6 PM.

In West Bengal, multiple districts reported exceptionally high voter turnout figures, underscoring an energised electorate.

Dakshin Dinajpur emerged as the frontrunner with 81.49%, followed closely by Paschim Medinipur at 81.07%, Jhargram at 81....