Political Violence Erupts in Murshidabad Ahead of West Bengal Elections

As the West Bengal assembly elections approach, Murshidabad district has erupted in political violence, marked by a bomb attack and clashes between party supporters. The situation has led to heightened security measures and allegations of voter intimidation, raising concerns about the electoral process. With the Election Commission monitoring the area closely, the unfolding events highlight the tense political climate in the region. Read on to discover more about the incidents and their implications for the upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 23, 2026, 12:06 IST

Political Turmoil in Murshidabad

During the initial phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, Murshidabad district has once again become a hotspot for political violence. The situation escalated on Thursday morning following a homemade bomb attack in Nauda, leading to a direct confrontation between supporters of the Awami Udyog Janata Party (AUJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) later that afternoon. This incident, which occurred in Nauda, instilled fear among local residents. One injured individual recounted to a news agency, "They were hurling abuses at us... We do not disturb anyone."

Increased Security Measures

In response to the violence, security has been heightened across Murshidabad district. The area has a history of unrest, prompting the Election Commission of India (ECI) to keep it under close observation. Following the incident, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal stated that strict actions would be taken and a report regarding the event has been requested.

Clash Between TMC and Humayun Kabir

Subsequently, a clash occurred between TMC workers and Humayun Kabir, the founder of AUJP, in Murshidabad. Kabir, who was expelled from TMC, attempted to visit the area where the bomb attack had taken place, but was confronted by TMC supporters, resulting in the altercation. A video shared by a news agency captured the confrontation between Kabir and TMC members. Kabir remarked, "Peaceful elections are taking place across all 22 seats in Nauda, Rejinagar, and Murshidabad. However, incidents occurred at two booths—number 9 and 10—during the night, where local police confiscated their bags."

Allegations of EVM Malfunctions and Intimidation

Voting for the first phase is ongoing in Murshidabad. However, polling was halted at booth number 156 in the Beldanga assembly constituency and booth number 212 in the Samserganj assembly constituency due to reported technical issues with the electronic voting machines (EVMs). Additionally, allegations of voter intimidation surfaced in Domkal, prompting the ECI to request a report from officials. According to reports, voters claimed they were threatened and obstructed from reaching polling stations, with many stating that neither local police nor central forces were present in the area on Thursday morning.

Improvement in Situation

Later in the day, the situation improved as a significant police presence, accompanied by central forces, arrived in Raipur village of Domkal. The election commission reported that this deployment allowed voters to safely access polling stations.