The counting of votes for six assembly constituencies in West Bengal, where by-elections were held last week, began at 8 AM on Saturday, amid tight security, officials said. The constituencies up for grabs are Naihati, Haroa, Medinipur, Taldangra, Sitai (SC), and Madarihat (ST). Voter turnout in the November 13 bypolls was 69.29 per cent. Sporadic incidents of violence, including a crude bomb attack in Bhatpara near Naihati, which claimed the life of a local TMC worker, were reported. To ensure a smooth counting process, the Election Commission has put in place extensive security arrangements, the officials said.
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