Phase 1 Voting in West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Violence and Tensions Emerge
Ink on lotus symbol, BJP candidate chased: Bengal elections are not for beginners | Phase 1 voting wrapped
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Phase 1 voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections in 2026 was marked by violence and confrontations, particularly between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Voting occurred in 152 constituencies across 16 districts, with over 62% voter turnout reported by the Election Commission of India.
- 01Phase 1 voting took place in West Bengal for 152 constituencies.
- 02Violence erupted, including an attack on Aam Janata Unnayan Party founder Humayun Kabir.
- 03A BJP candidate was chased by alleged TMC supporters in South Dinajpur.
- 04Incidents of vandalism included ink being smeared on the BJP symbol on voting machines.
- 05Voting percentage reached over 62% by 1 PM.
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Phase 1 voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections in 2026 commenced on Thursday, covering 152 constituencies across 16 districts. Initial hours were peaceful, but tensions escalated with incidents of violence. A scuffle occurred in Murshidabad involving Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AUJP) founder Humayun Kabir, who reported being attacked by supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) after visiting an area affected by a crude bomb incident. Later, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate was chased and manhandled by alleged TMC workers in South Dinajpur. Additionally, the BJP's lotus symbol on an electronic voting machine (EVM) was vandalized with ink, prompting a response from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to ensure voting continued smoothly. The window of BJP leader Agnimitra Paul's car was also shattered during an alleged stone-pelting incident. By 1 PM, the voter turnout was reported at over 62.18%, reflecting significant public engagement in this contentious electoral battle.
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The incidents of violence and vandalism during the elections may affect voter sentiment and participation in future phases.
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