West Bengal Elections 2026 Phase 2: Over 78% Turnout Till 3 PM Amid Clashes, High-Stakes Battle
Polling for the crucial second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 is underway across 142 constituencies, with a strong voter turnout and scattered incidents of tension reported from several areas.
According to the Election Commission, voter turnout reached approximately 78.68% by 3 PM, reflecting high participation in what is seen as a decisive phase of the elections. Over 3.22 crore voters are eligible to vote, with more than 1,400 candidates contesting across key districts in south Bengal and the Kolkata region.
The contest is largely being viewed as a high-stakes battle between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Suvendu Adhikari emerging as a key challenger in the high-profile Bhabanipur seat.
Despite heavy deployment of security forces and strict monitoring, sporadic incidents of violence and clashes were reported. TMC candidate Saokat Molla alleged that police carried out a lathi charge in Bhangar, injuring party supporters and creating a tense atmosphere.
Meanwhile, BJP candidate Priyanka Tibrewal raised concerns over overcrowding at a polling booth in Entally, alleging that polling agents were “sitting on EVMs” and compromising voter privacy. She claimed that her complaint led to partial corrective action, though tensions persisted.
West Bengal minister and TMC leader Firhad Hakim also criticised the Election Commission, alleging mismanagement and delays in polling. He said voters were turning out in large numbers despite fears linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
On the other hand, BJP leaders, including Tarun Chugh, expressed confidence in a strong mandate for the party, citing public support for development and governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Earlier, the first phase of polling recorded a high turnout of over 93%, setting the tone for strong voter mobilisation across the state. Authorities have intensified surveillance and security arrangements to ensure free and fair voting.
The results, scheduled to be announced on May 4, will determine whether the TMC retains power in West Bengal or if the BJP makes significant inroads into the state’s political landscape.
