WB Polls Turn Violent: 78% Voting, EVM Row Sparks Chaos
The second phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 recorded a high voter turnout of 78.68% by 3 PM across 142 constituencies, but the process was overshadowed by multiple incidents of violence and controversy. Reports of clashes, sloganeering, and lathi-charge surfaced from several districts, raising concerns over poll-day security.
The Bharatiya Janata Party alleged that its button on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Falta, Diamond Harbour was tampered with using tape. Responding swiftly, the Election Commission of India stated that re-polling would be conducted at any booth where such allegations are found to be true.
Tensions escalated in South 24 Parganas where BJP candidate Bikash Sardar claimed his vehicle was vandalised and security threatened. In Bhabanipur, senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, contesting against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, faced protests and sloganeering during a booth visit.
Security forces also carried out lathi-charges in Falta to control unrest. Despite the disruptions, authorities continued polling under tight security, while the EC monitored complaints closely for further action.
