West Bengal Election 2026: Massive 92.86% Voter Turnout In Phase 1, Election Commission 'Salutes' Every Voter

Congress candidate from Berhampore assembly constituency Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury claimed that its party agent was attacked by the TMC workers.
 

The Election Commission has suspended all polling personnel of booths in Bengal's Pingla for leaving premises unattended during voting hours, an official said, adding that a probe is on.

After a massive voter turnout in Tamil Nadu and in the first phase of West Bengal elections, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, "Highest ever percentage of polling in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence - ECI salutes each voter of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu."

The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections has recorded a significant voter turnout of 92.86%.

As of 5:00 PM, the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections has recorded a significant voter turnout of 89.93%. Dakshin Dinajpur leads with 93.12 % polling.

Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AUJP) founder and Rejinagar candidate Humayun Kabir visited the Babri Masjid construction site in Murshidabad on Thursday as polling for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections was underway. His campaign activities were marked by violent clashes earlier in the day between TMC and AUJP supporters over a crude bomb incident in Nowda, where vehicles were damaged and stones were pelted. 

The Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CRPF) personnel dispersed a crowd gathered near a polling station. Mild force was used to disperse the people. This incident took place in the Dangipara area of ​​Siliguri.- ANI

The first phase of polling in the 2026 Assembly elections saw strong voter participation across West Bengal. According to the Election Commission of India, turnout in West Bengal reached 62.18% by 1 PM, rising further to 78.77% by 3 PM. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing voters in West Bengal, accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of halting the state’s progress by promoting corruption and “cut money” practices. He alleged that TMC’s agenda revolves around collecting “gunda tax” and declared that May 4 would mark the end of TMC and Mamata Banerjee’s ‘jungle raj.’ Modi also highlighted the plight of fishermen, claiming that smuggling dominates West Bengal’s waters, while promising to develop the state into a major fish export hub as part of BJP’s agenda.

Polling in Birbhum saw tense moments as the BJP candidate from Siuri entered into a heated verbal altercation with a TMC worker. The BJP candidate alleged that the TMC worker was “terrorising” voters and insisted she could not remain within 100 metres of the polling booth. In response, the TMC worker defended her presence, saying she was only assisting a differently-abled voter with the voting procedure. The incident added to the charged atmosphere of the ongoing Assembly elections in West Bengal.

A tragic incident occurred in the Kandaran area of Malatipur assembly constituency in Malda, where a woman voter fell unconscious and passed away at a polling booth. Her son, Sunny, said she had gone to cast her vote with his brother and collapsed just as she was about to vote. Despite immediate attention, she was declared dead at the polling station, casting a somber shadow over the ongoing election process.

Violence during the first phase of polling in West Bengal continued as reports emerged from Lavpur, where a BJP polling agent was brutally attacked by alleged goons. The incident has raised serious concerns about voter intimidation and the safety of polling staff, adding to the tense atmosphere already surrounding the Assembly elections. Security forces have been deployed to restore order as authorities investigate the assault.

Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging that it has been “sold to the BJP” and will not act on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks. He claimed that whatever Modi says in terms of moral comments, the ECI refuses to take a stand. Chowdhury also suggested that the higher voter turnout in Bengal could be influenced by Modi’s presence, adding fuel to the ongoing political war of words during the Assembly elections.

Polling in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections was marred by violence after a video showed BJP candidate Suvendu Sarkar being chased across fields and allegedly assaulted by a mob in Kumarganj. The BJP claimed he was attacked by TMC supporters while heading to a polling booth amid disturbances. Sarkar alleged that polling agents were forcibly removed and said he was injured during the assault, with his vehicle also damaged.

TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha, contesting from Asansol, described himself as a “Hindustani Babu” while casting his vote during polling. He said it felt good to fulfil his duty as a citizen and voter of Asansol, highlighting his connection with the constituency as elections continue in West Bengal.

During polling in Asansol, BJP candidate and sitting MLA Agnimitra Paul’s car was attacked, sparking tension in the area. The incident highlights the volatile atmosphere surrounding the West Bengal Assembly elections as voting continues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking in Nadia, unveiled 10 guarantees focused on women’s safety, empowerment, and welfare. He promised strict punishment for crimes against women, women’s police stations in every block, large-scale recruitment of women into the police force, direct financial support through the Matri Shakti Bhorosa Card, aid for education and maternity, improved nutrition for infants, support through Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, Mudra loans up to Rs 20 lakh for self-employment, free medical treatment under Ayushman Bharat including cervical cancer vaccination, and home ownership rights for women under PM Awas Yojana. Modi emphasized that “a guarantee from Modi means a promise that will definitely be fulfilled.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged that women in Bengal have suffered under what he called TMC’s “Maha Jungle Raj,” citing incidents like the Hanskhali case and rising trafficking. He said the BJP is committed to empowering women through 33% reservation in Parliament and Assemblies, accusing the TMC and Congress of blocking the legislation. 

TMC candidate Sabina Yasmin from Sujapur alleged that central forces were slowing down voting by checking ID cards at multiple booths. She claimed this was an attempt to discourage voters standing under the sun, leading to reduced turnout, and said her party is filing a complaint.

TMC candidate Pradeep Sarkar expressed shock after seeing party posters removed and BJP flags put up even near polling stations in Kharagpur Sadar. He said, “The central forces promised peaceful voting, but what is happening?” raising concerns about fairness during the polls.

Congress candidate Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury raised concerns over repeated EVM failures at booth 141 in Berhampore, telling officials that voters were forced to leave under the sun without casting their ballots. He urged immediate intervention, noting the machine had already been replaced four times but remained non-functional.

As of 1 pm today, voter turnout in the ongoing Assembly elections stands at 62.18% in West Bengal and 56.81% in Tamil Nadu, according to the Election Commission of India. These figures reflect strong participation across both states in the first hours of polling.

By early afternoon, voter participation across West Bengal remained strong, with Bankura recording 64.58%, Cooch Behar at 60.75%, Darjeeling at 59.81%, Malda at 58.45%, Murshidabad at 62.71%, Jalpaiguri at 60.84%, and Jhargram leading with 65.31% turnout. These figures highlight active engagement across districts as polling continues.

In the latest polling trends for Phase 1 voting in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur district, Chandrakona (AC 232) is currently leading in voter turnout with 46.61%, as recorded at 11:00 AM. It is followed by Garhbeta (45.75%) and Salboni (45.71%), showing strong voter participation in these constituencies. On the lower side, Kharagpur Sadar (40.79%) has reported the least turnout among the seats visible in the data. Overall, the district’s approximate polling trend stands at 44.69% so far.

BJP candidate Dilip Ghosh said TMC’s Pradeep Sarkar “already sensed defeat” within hours of voting, adding that the party has fought against the Election Commission, central forces, and even over flags and banners, while asserting there is a BJP wave across Bengal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the BJP aims to make Bengal a developing and progressive state, assuring that people’s issues will be addressed with utmost honesty. He claimed public anger against TMC leaders is so strong that the party may fail to open its account in many cities. He said the people of Bengal are themselves fighting this election, sounding the “Shankh” in every street against what he called TMC’s “Jungle Raj.”

Humayun Kabir accused the TMC of continuing hooliganism, vowing that such acts will be brought to an end with the 2026 elections. Kabir alleged that while he was passing peacefully, he and his men were attacked, followed by police lathi charge. He accused the Superintendent of Police of acting as a “TMC servant” and demanded strict action against him.

At a rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi linked high voter turnout to BJP’s prospects, predicting celebrations on May 4 with sweets and jhalmuri. He quipped, “Jhalmuri maine khaayi lekin jhal TMC ko lagi hai,” suggesting the ruling party has been jolted by the people’s mood.

Casting his vote in Purba Medinipur, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari praised the Election Commission and central forces for ensuring peaceful polling, saying disturbances were minimal and expressing confidence of an overwhelming BJP result.

BJP leader Locket Chatterjee said there is a “tsunami of lotus” in Bengal, praising the Election Commission’s conduct of polls and expressing confidence that the state will soon see a BJP chief minister take oath.

Rahul Gandhi has urged support for Congress, framing the party as the defender of justice, diversity, and constitutional values. He emphasized respect for every culture and language, calling on people to deliver a strong mandate for dignity and progress in the state.

During the first phase of the West Bengal elections, voters at polling booth number 141 in Gorabazaar’s Khowar school complained of an electronic voting machine (EVM) malfunction, briefly disrupting the polling process.

In Murshidabad’s Nowda, TMC block president Sofiuzzaman Saikh alleged that Humayun Kabir arrived on election day with multiple cars carrying “anti-social and FIR-registered criminals” to disrupt polling. He claimed Kabir attempted to remove TMC polling agents and accused him of creating widespread hooliganism. Saikh said complaints were lodged with the Election Commission and police, but no arrests were made, warning that Kabir would be prevented from moving freely in the area.

Congress candidate Mausam Noor from the Maltipur constituency said voters are frustrated with corruption and anti-incumbency, stressing that people want development, secularism, and peace instead of religion-driven politics. She added that the atmosphere is “very positive” for Congress and expressed confidence of a complete victory in the region.

At a public address in Nadia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Election Commission for conducting what he called the most peaceful election in Bengal in five decades. He contrasted the current atmosphere with past years of “lawlessness and hooliganism” and congratulated government employees for their role. Modi also highlighted that voter turnout is breaking previous records, calling it a restoration of democracy’s dignity in the state.

In a quirky twist during the West Bengal elections, an elephant named Ramlal was spotted standing in what looked like a voting line outside a polling booth in Jitushol, Jhargram. The sight caused alarm among voters and briefly disrupted proceedings, but the animal did not harm anyone and eventually wandered off on its own, leaving behind a memorable election-day moment.

Fresh unrest erupted in Murshidabad during the West Bengal Assembly elections, marking the third violent incident reported from the district today. Police resorted to lathi-charge to disperse crowds after clashes intensified, while protesters also blocked a highway, disrupting movement in the area. Amid the chaos, the vehicle of Aam Janata Unnayan Party chief Humayun Kabir was vandalised, further heightening tensions around polling stations. The repeated flare-ups underscore the volatile atmosphere in the district as voting continues.

BJP candidate from Nandigram and Bhabanipur, Suvendu Adhikari, claimed that a Hindu woman approached him in tears, pleading for protection and warning that Hindus would be “finished off like Murshidabad” if Mamata Banerjee returned to power. He added that elderly women told him they were determined to “teach didi a lesson,” stressing that Sanatani and tribal women voters would play a decisive role. Adhikari also alleged that TMC-backed miscreants were intimidating voters, though apart from sporadic incidents in Jhargram and West Midnapore, the ruling party “was not able to do much.” He pointed to a protest led by BJP candidate Dr. Pranat Tudu, who staged a dharna and secured the release of 10 arrested individuals, underscoring the tense atmosphere ahead of polling.  
 

In Nandigram, the Trinamool Congress accused police of siding with the BJP, with state minister Shashi Panja stating that officers in Purba Medinipur acted with bias. A TMC delegation lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer seeking the removal of two officials. The BJP rejected the charge, as Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari countered that “TMC-backed goons” were intimidating voters and allowing criminals to move freely near polling booths. He said he was visiting affected areas to reassure the electorate and urged vigilance to ensure fair polling.

#WATCH BJP candidate from the Egra Assembly constituency, Dibyendu Adhikari, casts his vote at a polling booth in Kanthi Dakshin

He says, "... Apart from all the other states, West Bengal stands out as the only state with violence pre-poll, on polling day, and even after the poll... I sincerely hope that the Election Commission ensures that free and fair elections are conducted. Voting took place in the other 4-5 states as well, but there has not been a single complaint. But West Bengal is the exception... We face every possible challenge here during the elections. Criminals are on the move, and I am continuously urging all electors in West Bengal to report any disruption, even a brief power cut of 5-10 minutes, to the presiding officer, the returning officer, and the ECI helpline..."

On security deployment in the state, he says, "I am completely satisfied with the deployment... The SIR process is routine, and there is nothing unusual about it..."-ANI

On the reports of violence during the first phase of voting in West Bengal elections 2026, Bisnupur BJP MP Saumitra Khan says, "...fighting and physical violence, this is the culture of TMC... as of today, we have crossed the century mark... This day will go down as a historic day... We will do whatever to save West Bengal... TMC is not able to do anything this time. The real game is being played by the public..."

Aam Janata Unnayan Party chief Humayun Kabir alleged the ruling Trinamool Congress bribed several of his party candidates to keep them out of the poll fray. Kabir, who cast his vote during the early hours of polling, was met with protests from Trinamool Congress supporters who raised “go back” slogans when the leader visited a polling booth in Shibnagar village in Murshidabad’s Naoda Assembly constituency.

As of 11:00 AM in Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections, voter turnout showed strong participation across districts: Bankura recorded 43.22%, Coochbehar 38.67%, Darjeeling 39.72%, Malda 38.22%, Murshidabad 41.59%, Jalpaiguri 39.51%, and Jhargram led with 43.71%. These figures reflect rising engagement compared to early morning trends, with most districts crossing the 38–43% range by mid-morning.

Tension escalated in Murshidabad during phase 1 polling as political goons allegedly tried to switch off cameras during a live broadcast and attacked Republic TV reporters. AJUP Chief and Rejinagar candidate Humayun Kabir, who was sitting on dharna at the spot, accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of “gundagiri” and urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take action. Kabir reiterated that he would continue his protest, while the incident highlighted rising hostility around the polling process.

During phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections, tension erupted in Nowda, Murshidabad, when AJUP Chief and Rejinagar candidate Humayun Kabir visited a violence-affected area. Kabir staged a protest in front of Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers, further intensifying the situation. Visuals from the spot captured the confrontation as polling continued under heavy security.  

#WATCH | West Bengal Assembly elections : Shankar Ghosh, BJP Candidate From Siliguri Constituency, Casts His Vote at a polling station set up in Jagadish Chandra Vidyapith, in Siliguri

During phase 1 of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly Election 2026, a verbal altercation broke out between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers at Booth No. 26/237, located at Jagadish Chandra Vidyariti in Siliguri, Darjeeling. 

Tensions flared in Murshidabad as Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers clashed with cadres of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AUJP) upon the arrival of party chief and Rejinagar candidate Humayun Kabir. Security forces intervened with mild lathicharge to disperse the crowd, while Kabir urged his supporters to remain calm and allow peaceful voting. The incident followed reports of a crude bomb attack in the area a day earlier, adding to the tense atmosphere. 

West Bengal Election: During phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026, BJP leader Boora Narsaiah Goud declared “Kamal Khilega, Bengal Badhega,” expressing optimism about the party’s prospects while criticizing the Mamata Banerjee-led government. He claimed that both Hindus and Muslims in the state seek change and a better life under BJP rule, adding that the vision of a “real Sonar Bangla” is driving voter commitment. Meanwhile, voter turnout stood at 18.76% by 9 a.m., with Paschim Mednipur, Bankura, and Jhargram recording high participation. The two-phase election covers 294 seats, with counting scheduled for May 4, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress and the BJP.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken note of the crude bomb incident in Nowda and discussed the situation with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) following reports of violence in Murshidabad. Meanwhile, the CRPF Inspector General (IG) held talks with the Superintendent of Police (SP) and the District Collector to address the violent scenes unfolding in the area. Adding to the developments, Humayun Kabir, AJUP Chief and candidate from the Rejinagar Assembly constituency, visited the incident spot in Nowda to assess the situation firsthand.

In Murshidabad, West Bengal, allegations have been raised against the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Reports suggest that at Booth No. 54 under the Raninnagar Assembly constituency (No. 63), voters were allegedly prevented from entering the polling station, sparking concerns about electoral fairness and transparency.

By 9 AM, voter turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections stood at 18.76%. Polling began early in the morning across 152 constituencies, with the second phase scheduled for April 29. The final results will be declared on May 4, deciding the fate of the 294‑seat assembly.

Polling in the Mothabari constituency of Malda district was briefly disrupted after a reported malfunction in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) at the Balua Chara High School booth, with the sector officer allegedly absconding from the spot. Malda, already a political flashpoint in the run‑up to the elections, saw tensions rise as parties traded accusations over the incident. The constituency features a multi‑cornered contest between TMC’s Islam Md Najrul, BJP’s Nibaran Ghosh, AIMIM’s Mostahid Haque, and Congress’ Sayem Chowdhury. Voting across 152 constituencies in Phase 1 continues under tight security, with results scheduled to be declared on May 4.

Tension flared in Nowda, Murshidabad district, after unidentified individuals hurled a crude bomb, leaving several people injured. The incident disrupted polling activity in the area, adding to the already charged atmosphere as voters queued up to cast their ballots. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure security as voting continues across 152 constituencies.  
 

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge urged West Bengal voters to turn out in large numbers in the first phase of Assembly Elections, stressing that “your vote is your voice.” He appealed especially to young first-time voters to uphold democracy and ensure development reaches every corner of the state, invoking Bengal’s legacy of leaders who fought for justice, equality, and freedom.

BJP’s Asansol Dakshin candidate Agnimitra Paul cast her vote in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, describing the contest as a “war to save Bengal.” She attacked CM Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, emphasized youth employment, reversing migration, and highlighted women’s support for BJP. Paul faces TMC’s Tapas Banerjee in a high-profile battle in the industrially significant Asansol region.

BJP leader Dilip Ghosh, contesting from Kharagpur Sadar, expressed confidence in the party winning over 100 seats in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, while attacking TMC for sidelining local leaders and criticising Mamata Banerjee’s governance. He also accused the Congress of weak leadership, claiming BJP benefits from its missteps.

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: After voting in Nandigram, BJP's Suvendu Adhikari claims their polling agent was arrested, demanding immediate action. He insists Parivartan will come, warning that without it, Sanatana in Bengal will be finished despite active goons.
 

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: State LoP & BJP Candidate from Nandigram & Bhabanipur, Suvendu Adhikari casts his vote at a polling station in Nandigram.

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: Polling commenced at 7 am in Birbhum for West Bengal Assembly elections, with officials ensuring smooth processes through early deployment of polling personnel and security forces following Election Commission guidelines.
 

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: PM Modi urged voters in West Bengal to actively participate in the Assembly elections, calling voting a "festival of democracy." He encouraged young people and women to fulfill their democratic duties, ensuring strong, inclusive participation from all societal sections.

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: Voting in 152 of its constituencies is underway in the first phase.

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: The TMC intensified its criticism of the BJP, labeling them "Bohiragoto" and disrespectful to Bengal, while alleging the BJP is running "special trains" with free travel and food to sway voters.
 

Tamil Nadu Election 2026 LIVE: In West Bengal, mock polling was conducted at the Siliguri Girls' High School in Siliguri to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Polling for the Assembly elections 2026 will begin at 7:00 am and will conclude at 6:00 pm today.

West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: Rahul Gandhi urged West Bengal residents to support Congress, claiming it’s the sole party capable of defeating the BJP. He emphasized Congress’s commitment to protecting rights and diversity, contrasting it with the BJP's actions, and encouraged unity for a victorious outcome.