Murshidabad Clash Erupts: TMC Workers Face Off with Police as AUJP Leader Humayun Kabir Arrives
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: 78.77% Voting by 3 PM Amid Sporadic Violence
West Bengal recorded strong voter turnout on Thursday, April 23, 2026, during the first phase of Assembly elections. Around 78.77% of the 3.60 crore voters cast their ballots by 3 PM. However, reports of violence and voter intimidation surfaced from several areas.
This phase will decide the fate of 1,478 candidates across 152 constituencies in the 294-seat Assembly.
High Turnout Across Districts
Dakshin Dinajpur led with 81.49% turnout. Paschim Medinipur followed with 81.07%, while Jhargram recorded 81.04%. Most of the 16 polling districts crossed 72% turnout, showing strong voter participation.
Violence and Tensions Reported
Tensions rose in several constituencies during polling.
In Asansol Dakshin, attackers pelted stones at BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul’s car near Rahmat Nagar. The attack shattered the rear window, police confirmed.
In Kumarganj, BJP candidate Subhendu Sarkar claimed that attackers vandalised his vehicle and injured him. He accused Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers of carrying out the attack.
Murshidabad also witnessed clashes. TMC workers raised slogans and argued with police when AUJP founder Humayun Kabir arrived in the area.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has now asked officials for a report. Authorities received complaints that some people could not vote in Domkal, Murshidabad.
What’s Next
The second phase of polling will take place on April 29. Voters will decide 142 seats in and around Kolkata.
Officials will count the votes on May 4.
