High Voter Turnout Recorded
The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 saw a significant voter turnout, with preliminary figures indicating robust participation across
the polling districts. By 1:00 PM, the state had recorded 62.18% voter turnout, a figure that rose to 78.77% by 3:00 PM, showcasing the electorate's engagement. Earlier in the day, at 9:00 AM, the turnout stood at 18.76%, climbing to 41.11% by 11:00 AM. These statistics reflect the general trend observed across the 152 constituencies involved in this initial phase. The district-wise data further illustrates this participation, with areas like Paschim Medinipur showing high engagement at 65.77% by 1 PM, while Malda recorded 58.45% in the same period. The overall figures suggest a strong democratic exercise was underway, despite other reported challenges during the day.
Campaign Trail & Political Statements
During the campaign leading up to and on election day, prominent political figures made significant statements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated his vision, stating that a 'new era of national security will be ushered in after Bengal poll results,' and also pledged to 'double Bengal's development pace with a double-engine government.' On the other side, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) urged citizens to vote, emphasizing the importance of exercising their franchise to 'safeguard the rights of every individual' and to 'answer decisively for the years of neglect, torment, deprivation, and exploitation inflicted by Bangla-Birodhi Bohiragoto Zamindars.' TMC leader Shantanu Sen asserted that the voting patterns indicated a clear public mandate 'against the anti-India, anti-Bengal BJP.' Congress candidate Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury alluded to an 'anti-incumbency wave' and the 'effect of SIR' influencing the polls.
Incidents and Allegations
The electoral process was marked by several reported incidents and allegations between political parties. BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul from Asansol South reported her car being attacked and vandalized, with the rear glass shattered. Similarly, BJP candidate Subhendu Sarkar from Kumarganj claimed to have been injured and his vehicle vandalized by TMC workers. A polling agent for the Labhpur BJP candidate in Birbhum sustained a head injury and required hospitalization. In Domkol, Murshidabad, clashes were reported between TMC and CPI(M) workers, necessitating police intervention to ensure villagers could vote safely. Agnimitra Paul also alleged her vehicle was vandalized near a polling booth. The TMC accused CRPF personnel of assaulting three women in Chopra, North Dinajpur, with one reportedly sustaining head injuries. There were also reports of a verbal altercation between a BJP candidate and a TMC worker in Birbhum over alleged voter intimidation.
Security and Electoral Oversight
The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections was conducted under a heightened security apparatus, with extensive deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and state police across 152 constituencies. A total of 2.4 lakh personnel were tasked with overseeing the polling, and CAPF personnel were granted charge of security up to 100 meters from polling stations to prevent intimidation. Notably, no civic volunteers or contractual staff were assigned polling duties. A central control room was established at the Chief Electoral Officer's office in Kolkata to monitor the proceedings. Mock polls commenced at 5 am in 44,376 booths. Union minister Sukanta Majumdar acknowledged the Election Commission's efforts for a 'largely peaceful' start to the voting, while urging continued vigilance. There were also specific procedural measures, such as the verification of identities of burqa-clad women at some polling stations and the dispersal of gatherings near booths by security forces.
