Reports of violence, vandalism, and voting disruptions emerged from parts of West Bengal on Wednesday as polling began for the final phase of the Assembly elections, with political tensions escalating alongside allegations from major parties.
By the end of the voting process, the voter turnout for the final phase stood at 92.2 percent, indicating brisk participation across constituencies despite reports of disruptions and technical issues at some polling stations.
According to initial reports, clashes broke out in some areas shortly after voting commenced at 7 am, while claims of electronic voting machine (EVM) glitches and delayed polling were raised in districts including Hooghly. In Bally, personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) reportedly detained two individuals following a confrontation linked to similar allegations.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is contesting from the high-profile Bhabanipur constituency, addressed the media and showed a video clip claiming that a Trinamool Congress worker was assaulted, questioning the conduct of polling under such circumstances.
Banerjee is among the 1,448 candidates contesting across 142 constituencies voting in the final phase. Her contest in Bhabanipur against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari is being closely watched amid an intense political battle.
Allegations surrounding EVM functioning surfaced early in the day, with BJP candidates from Sonarpur Dakshin and Panihati claiming issues with voting machines at polling booths. BJP leader Amit Malviya later shared a video clip on social media, alleging that attempts were made to obstruct the voting button meant for his party using tape.
Separately, voters in parts of Howrah and Baranagar reported delays in the commencement of polling, alleging that voting began later than the scheduled time due to technical glitches. Some voters also claimed unsuccessful attempts to cast their votes in the early hours.
Political rhetoric also intensified as polling began, with Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to resign if the ruling party in West Bengal is re-elected.
The BJP, which significantly improved its tally to 77 seats in the 2021 Assembly elections, is aiming to secure a mandate in the state this time.
Authorities have not issued detailed statements addressing the allegations of EVM malfunction or violence at the time of reporting. Polling continues across all 142 constituencies amid tight security and heightened political scrutiny.
