Violence Erupts During First Phase of West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026

Voting Commences Amid Tensions

The first phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections is set for April 23, 2026. Reports of sporadic violence have emerged from various parts of the state, with the most alarming incident occurring in Kumarganj, South Dinajpur. Here, BJP candidate Shuvendu Sarkar was allegedly attacked by supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), who reportedly dragged him from his vehicle and assaulted him in the presence of police. A video surfaced showing him being chased through fields.

Details of the Incident

The altercation began at polling booth number 24, where the BJP claimed their polling agents were being barred from entering the voting center. Upon receiving this information, Shuvendu Sarkar arrived at the scene, only to be surrounded by an aggressive crowd. The attackers not only assaulted him but also vandalized his vehicle. The BJP has labeled this incident as a significant failure of security measures.

Shuvendu Sarkar's Statement

BJP candidate Shuvendu Sarkar stated, 'At 8 to 10 of our polling booths in the Kumarganj constituency, our agents were forcibly removed. I intervened personally to ensure they were allowed back in. When I went to assess the situation at booth number 24, my entire team was attacked. Their intention was clear: to create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Central security forces were present at the polling center, but when I arrived, I was only accompanied by my bodyguard. Mamata Banerjee has already lost the elections, and the TMC is set to lose all four seats in this area. This panic and fear led them to assault us.'

High Voter Turnout Despite Tensions

Despite the clashes and political confrontations, voter enthusiasm in Bengal remains high. By 11 AM, an average voter turnout of 41.11% was recorded, even amid the sweltering heat and tense atmosphere. West Medinipur led with a turnout of 44.69%, while Malda reported the lowest at 38.22%. Authorities have asserted that the situation at violence-affected booths is now under control, and voting is proceeding peacefully.