Bengal Polls 2026: 78.77% Turnout, Violence Claims, BJP Leader Alleges Attack

The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 witnessed an intense mix of high voter enthusiasm and rising political tension, as 78.77% voter turnout was recorded across 152 constituencies by 3 PM on Thursday. Voting, which began early morning under tight security arrangements, is being conducted across 16 key districts including Darjeeling, Murshidabad, Malda, Birbhum, and Jalpaiguri, with over 3 crore voters eligible to cast their ballots.

While the strong turnout reflects active public participation in what is being termed a crucial electoral battle, the day has also been marred by multiple allegations of violence, disruptions, and irregularities. BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul claimed that her car was attacked in Asansol South constituency after a stone was hurled at it, damaging the vehicle. Similar accusations emerged from other parts of the state, with BJP leaders alleging attacks by rival party workers and obstruction of polling agents.

Reports of clashes between political workers surfaced from districts like Murshidabad and Birbhum, while incidents of crude bomb explosions and mob violence raised serious concerns about voter safety. In some areas, central forces had to intervene to disperse crowds near polling booths to maintain order. Allegations were not limited to violence alone, as complaints of EVM malfunctions and proxy voting also emerged, with opposition leaders demanding immediate intervention from the Election Commission.

Despite the disruptions, several leaders across parties maintained that polling was largely peaceful in many constituencies. Senior leaders and candidates, including prominent figures from BJP, TMC, and Congress, were seen casting their votes and urging citizens to participate in large numbers.

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress is aiming to retain power for a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP is aggressively pushing to form its first government in the state. Meanwhile, Congress and Left parties are attempting to regain their lost political ground.

With over 7,000 polling booths categorized as “super-sensitive,” security remains a top priority for authorities as voting continues till the evening. The outcome of this high-voltage electoral contest is expected to significantly shape the political landscape of West Bengal, as the state witnesses one of its most closely watched and fiercely contested elections in recent times.