West Bengal Elections Phase 2 LIVE: Over 61% Voter Turnout Till 1 PM Amid Sporadic Violence
Voting in the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 witnessed strong participation, with over 61% voter turnout recorded till 1 p.m., even as sporadic incidents of violence were reported from parts of the state.
According to the Election Commission of India, more than 3.21 crore voters are eligible in this phase, covering 142 constituencies across key districts in South Bengal and Kolkata. Hooghly recorded the highest turnout at 64.57%, followed by Howrah at 60.68%. Kolkata North registered 60.18%, Kolkata South 57.73%, while Nadia reported 61.41% turnout.
Polling is being held under tight security, with central forces and state police deployed across sensitive booths to ensure smooth voting. Officials said the process has largely remained peaceful despite isolated clashes.
Tensions briefly escalated in Bhabanipur, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari are contesting, as supporters from rival parties exchanged slogans near a polling booth. Police later brought the situation under control.
In Hooghly’s Khanakul constituency, minor clashes were reported between workers of the Trinamool Congress and the BJP at a polling station. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) intervened, and voting resumed shortly after.
Fresh tensions were also reported from Bhangar and parts of South 24 Parganas, where the Indian Secular Front (ISF) alleged threats to polling agents and attempts to influence voters. Security forces have been deployed heavily in sensitive areas.
Despite these incidents, election officials expressed confidence that overall turnout could surpass the first phase figures. Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal said extensive monitoring and security arrangements are ensuring a smooth polling process.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also thanked the people of West Bengal for the high turnout and urged them to continue participating in what he described as the “festival of democracy.”
The second phase is considered crucial as it covers political strongholds in South Bengal and Kolkata. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
