Kolkata: Polling for the first phase of the high-stakes West Bengal Assembly elections, covering 152 of the state’s 294 constituencies spread across 16 districts, recorded a turnout of 18.76% in the first two hours of voting on Thursday, with the highest in Paschim Medinipur (20.5%), Bankura (20.2%) and Jhargram (19.8%), according to the Election Commission.
Nearly 3.6 crore eligible voters, including about 1.75 crore women, are deciding the fate of 1,478 candidates in this initial round amid unprecedented security with around 2,450 companies of central paramilitary forces, roughly 2.5 lakh personnel, deployed to ensure smooth proceedings.
Though polling has largely been peaceful, the Election Commission has sought a detailed report on allegations of voters being barred from polling stations in Murshidabad district’s Domkal area. Reports also emerged of clashes in parts of Murshidabad, including incidents involving crude bombs in Nowda and minor EVM glitches at some booths. TMC and other parties have also traded accusations over alleged irregularities and police actions.
International Observers Praise Arrangements
A 13-member international delegation under the Election Commission’s International Election Visitors Programme (IEVP) 2026, comprising representatives from Namibia, Georgia, Nepal, Philippines, Switzerland, Kenya, and International IDEA, visited polling stations, including in Darjeeling.
Joined by EC officials, the delegates described the setup as “wonderful… systematic, very well managed,” commending facilities and overall organization.
Modi, Kharge, TMC Issue Voter Appeals
Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people of West Bengal to participate enthusiastically in the “festival of democracy,” with a special call to youth and women. “Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate… I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers,” he posted on X.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge emphasised constitutional values, urging voters not to be deterred. “As West Bengal votes in the first phase… I sincerely urge all citizens to step out and participate in large numbers. Your vote is your voice,” he said, invoking ideals of democracy, justice, equality, and freedom, and making a special appeal to first-time voters.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) revived its iconic ‘Maa, Mati, Manush’ slogan to mobilize supporters. “The first phase of polling is underway in Bengal. We call on every single voter to exercise their democratic franchise, freely, fairly, and without fear… Vote to honour our Maa. Vote to defend our Mati. Vote to protect our Manush,” the party posted, framing the election as a fight for development, rights, and against “neglect and exploitation.”
Poll Schedule
The second and final phase, covering 142 constituencies primarily in the Kolkata region, is scheduled for April 29. Votes from both phases will be counted on May 4.
This election is seen as a critical test for the ruling TMC led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, facing a strong challenge from the BJP and other opposition parties in a politically charged atmosphere.
