Polling in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 saw a strong turnout. By 3 p.m., 78.77% of the 3.60 crore voters cast their ballots. This phase covers 152 constituencies. A total of 1,478 candidates are contesting for seats in the 294-member Assembly.
Voters showed high participation across districts. Almost all 16 districts crossed 72% turnout. Dakshin Dinajpur recorded the highest at 81.49%. Paschim Medinipur followed with 81.07%. Jhargram registered 81.04%, showing strong voter enthusiasm.
Some incidents of violence and intimidation disrupted polling. In Asansol Dakshin, miscreants pelted stones at BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul’s car. The attack damaged its rear windows. In Kumarganj, BJP candidate Subhendu Sarkar said TMC workers attacked him. He also claimed they vandalised his vehicle..
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WB Elections Polls 2026: 78.77% Voting, Clashes Reported
Tensions escalated in Murshidabad, where clashes broke out between Trinamool Congress workers and police when AUJP leader Humayun Kabir arrived in the area. Reports also emerged from Domkal, where some voters were allegedly stopped from casting their ballots, prompting the Election Commission to seek a detailed report from officials.
The remaining phases of the election will continue soon, with the second phase scheduled for April 29, covering 142 constituencies in and around Kolkata. The counting of votes for all phases will take place on May 4, which will determine the final outcome of the elections.
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