Ananya Lohia , Kolkata - West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 are underway amid tight security, with a strong voter turnout reported in the first phase. However, allegations of intimidation and clashes in parts of Murshidabad have raised concerns during polling day.
According to the Chief Electoral Officer, the State recorded a voter turnout of 41.11% as of 11 a.m. Polling began at 7 a.m. across 152 constituencies in 16 districts, and by 9 a.m., 18.76% of the 3.60 crore voters had already cast their votes. Tension was reported from Domkal in Murshidabad district, where several voters alleged threats and intimidation, claiming they were warned of assault if they attempted to reach polling booths. Taking serious note of these complaints, the Election Commission of India has sought a detailed report from local officials. In a separate incident, a clash broke out in Murshidabad involving workers of the Trinamool Congress, who allegedly raised slogans and engaged in an altercation with police during the arrival of Humayun Kabir, founder of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party. The elections are being conducted under unprecedented security arrangements, with around 2,450 companies of central paramilitary forces, comprising nearly 2.5 lakh personnel, deployed across the State. These high-stakes polls follow a Special Intensive Revision (SIR), which reduced the electorate by nearly 12%.
While voting continues across the State, the focus remains on ensuring a free and fair electoral process amid reports of unrest. The second phase of polling is scheduled for April 29 in and around Kolkata, with the counting of votes set for May 4.
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