Voting in the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 has seen brisk participation, even as political tensions and allegations of irregularities emerge from several constituencies.
While early turnout figures indicate strong voter engagement, reports of clashes, claims of EVM issues, and accusations by candidates have added to the charged atmosphere. Officials, however, maintain that the polling process remains largely under control.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Phase 2
The second phase of polling is underway across key constituencies in West Bengal, with voters turning up in large numbers despite concerns around law and order. Voting began at 7 AM with smooth operations reported at most booths.
Election officials confirmed that arrangements, including EVM setup, queue management and security deployment, were in place before polling started. Political parties are also closely monitoring developments, given the high stakes involved in this phase.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Phase 2: Voter Turnout Till 1 PM
According to data released by the Election Commission of India, voter turnout reached 61.11% by 1 PM on polling day.
District-wise figures show strong participation, with Purba Bardhaman recording the highest turnout at around 66.8%. Officials expect the final turnout to increase significantly as more voters cast their ballots later in the day.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Key Constituencies in Phase 2
- Panihati - High-profile seat witnessing controversy, including allegations of attack and EVM issues
- Purba Bardhaman constituencies - Recorded the highest voter turnout so far at around 66.8%
- North 24 Parganas region seats - Politically sensitive and crucial for both major parties
- South 24 Parganas region seats - Key battleground with strong presence of Trinamool Congress
- Urban and semi-urban belts across Kolkata outskirts - Important for swing votes and closely contested by Bharatiya Janata Party and TMC
These constituencies play a decisive role in shaping the overall electoral outcome, making Phase 2 particularly significant.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Voter Demographics So Far in Phase 2
The electorate in this phase reflects a diverse voter base. Out of approximately 3.21 crore eligible voters, around 1.57 crore are women, highlighting strong female participation.
Additionally, 792 third-gender voters are also registered to cast their votes. The demographic spread indicates inclusive participation across different sections of society.
BJP’s EVM Glitch Claims
The BJP has raised concerns regarding alleged irregularities involving Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Party leaders claimed that their poll symbol was either covered with ink or tape at certain booths, making it difficult for voters to identify.
In one instance in Panihati, reports suggested that the issue was addressed after the ink was removed using sanitiser. BJP leader Amit Malviya also shared a video online, alleging attempts to block the party's voting option.
He said: "In several polling booths, the option to vote for the BJP has been blocked using a tape, effectively preventing voters from exercising their choice. This is the so-called "Diamond Harbour Model," the same template that helped Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee secure his Lok Sabha seat."
RG Kar Victim’s Mother Claims Attack in Panihati
A major controversy emerged after the mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, who is contesting as a BJP candidate, alleged that she was attacked during polling in Panihati.
She claimed, "TMC workers intensely targeted me earlier today. They sent goons who attacked me while shouting ‘go back’ slogans. The Police refused to cooperate when I asked them to make arrests. Now, as a candidate, I found that in this booth, ink has been put on BJP button on the EVM. How will the public be able to vote?"
The allegations have sparked political reactions, though officials have not yet confirmed the claims.
85% Voting Completed in West Bengal Assembly Elections Phase 2?
Senior BJP leader Locket Chatterjee claimed that voting could reach as high as 85%, suggesting a higher turnout than initial estimates.
"The process is going on very peacefully. I think there will be more voting than in the first phase. Everyone should exercise their right. BJP is forming the government…Bengal is slipping from Mamata Banerjee’s hands," she said.
However, official figures have not confirmed this number yet, and authorities continue to release verified turnout data periodically.
Voter Turnout to Surpass Phase 1?
Officials remain optimistic about the overall turnout. West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal suggested that the state could match or even exceed the high benchmark set during the first phase.
“In the first phase, West Bengal showed the country that a 93 per cent voter turnout is possible, and that elections can be free and fair. In this phase as well, we aim to match or even exceed that benchmark,” Agarwal said.
If current trends continue, Phase 2 could witness one of the highest voter turnouts in recent elections.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Result Date
The results of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 will be declared on May 4, 2026, as scheduled by the Election Commission of India. On the counting day, votes recorded in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) across all constituencies will be counted, with early trends expected to emerge in the morning.
Final results are usually announced by evening, once all rounds of counting are completed. The outcome will determine which party or alliance forms the next government in West Bengal, making May 4 a crucial date in the state's political calendar.