78.68% Turnout in Bengal Phase 2 as CM Flags Concerns Over Poll Process

West Bengal recorded a voter turnout of approximately 78.68% by 3:00 PM during Phase 2 of the ongoing Assembly elections, indicating strong participation across districts.

Among the regions, Purba Bardhaman reported the highest turnout at 83.11%, followed by Hooghly (80.77%) and Nadia (79.79%). Kolkata North saw a turnout of 78%, while Howrah and North 24 Parganas recorded 77.73% and 77.39%, respectively. South 24 Parganas registered 76.75%, and Kolkata South reported the lowest turnout at 75.38%.

The polling day was marked by political tensions and allegations. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused central forces deployed in the state of acting “as per the BJP’s directions.” Addressing the media, she presented a video, claiming that a Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker had been assaulted, and questioned the fairness of the electoral process. 

Banerjee is contesting from Bhabanipur, where she faces BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in a closely watched contest. A total of 1,448 candidates are in the fray across 142 constituencies in this final phase. The BJP is aiming to improve its performance from the 2021 elections, where it secured 77 seats.

Meanwhile, several complaints related to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) emerged during the day. BJP candidates from Sonarpur Dakshin and Panihati alleged malfunctioning machines, particularly issues with buttons at polling booths. BJP leader Amit Malviya also shared a video on social media, alleging attempts to tamper with EVMs by covering the BJP voting button with tape.

There were also reports of delays in polling at certain locations. In parts of Howrah and Baranagar, voters claimed that polling began later than the scheduled time of 7:00 AM. Some voters reported initial difficulties in casting their votes, citing technical glitches in EVMs.

In Panihati, the BJP candidate and mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim alleged that she was attacked by TMC workers earlier in the day. She claimed that a group confronted her and raised slogans asking her to leave the area.

Separately, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he should be willing to resign if the TMC returns to power in the state.