High voter turnout recorded as political tensions escalate, Mamata Banerjee alleges atrocities, BJP counters with claims of TMC fear
Kolkata: Voting for the crucial second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 is underway amid high turnout and rising political tensions, with multiple incidents of clashes and allegations surfacing across constituencies.
As of 3 PM, the state recorded a significant 78.68% voter turnout, indicating strong participation despite sporadic unrest. Earlier in the day, turnout stood at 61.11% till 1 PM, reflecting steady voter enthusiasm.
TMC Alleges Disruption, BJP Accused of Slowing Voting
West Bengal minister and TMC candidate from Shyampukur, Shashi Panja, alleged that BJP workers were attempting to disrupt polling and slow down the voting process.
“Voting is going very smoothly. BJP candidates and their agents are creating a ruckus to slow down polling. Despite this, Mamata Banerjee will win with the blessings of the people,” she stated.
Panja also cast her vote earlier in the day, expressing confidence in her party’s victory.
Mamata Banerjee Alleges Atrocities by Central Forces
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made serious allegations against central forces, claiming violence and harassment of voters.
“The CRPF and Central Observers are killing people. They have not spared women and children. This is contempt of court. I have never seen democracy like this. TMC is winning,” she said.
Her remarks intensified the political confrontation between state leadership and central authorities.
BJP Hits Back, Claims TMC is ‘Scared’
Reacting sharply, BJP MLA Shankar Ghosh accused the ruling party of fear and misuse of administration.
“TMC’s statements show they are scared. For years, they misused the police. Now that law is being followed, they are afraid,” he said.
Clashes Reported in Bhangar, Security Forces Intervene
A violent clash broke out between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Indian Secular Front (ISF) workers in Bhangar, prompting security forces to resort to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.
TMC Accuses CRPF of Assaulting Polling Agent
TMC candidate Paresh Ram Das from Canning West alleged that a polling agent was assaulted by CRPF personnel, adding that the party would file a formal complaint against the officials involved.
Polling Delays Alleged, EC Under Scrutiny
TMC leader Kunal Ghosh claimed that mismanagement by the Election Commission had slowed down polling in several areas, despite strong voter turnout, particularly among women and senior citizens.
Tension in Key Constituencies
Tense situations were reported in multiple regions, including Basanti in South 24 Parganas, where protests erupted over alleged police action, and Rajarhat New Town, where TMC supporters surrounded BJP candidate Piyush Kanpuria, leading to heightened confrontation.
Heavy deployment of central forces and police personnel has been ensured across sensitive booths to maintain law and order.
Congress Leader Questions Violence-Free Polling
Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury expressed skepticism over peaceful elections in the state.
“It is impossible to expect violence-free elections in Bengal. Still, people are coming out in large numbers due to the presence of central forces,” he said.
High Stakes as Bengal Nears Final Verdict
With polling progressing amid heavy security, political accusations, and strong voter turnout, the second phase is expected to play a decisive role in determining the next government in West Bengal.
Further updates are awaited as voting continues across constituencies.
