BJP candidate Dibyendu Adhikari cast his vote during the first phase of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections on Thursday, raising serious concerns over electoral violence and urging authorities to ensure a free and fair polling process.
Adhikari, contesting from the Egra Assembly constituency in Purba Medinipur district, voted at a polling booth in the Kanthi Dakshin area early in the day. Soon after exercising his franchise, he expressed apprehension about the law-and-order situation during elections, claiming that West Bengal has consistently witnessed violence before, during, and even after polling.
Speaking to reporters, the BJP leader called upon the Election Commission to take strict action to curb such incidents and guarantee voter safety. He emphasized that a peaceful voting atmosphere is essential for maintaining democratic integrity and public confidence in the electoral system.
The first phase of polling in West Bengal covered 152 constituencies across 16 districts, marking a crucial start to a high-stakes political contest in the state. Voter turnout remained steady through the day, reflecting strong public participation despite sporadic reports of tension and unrest.
However, multiple incidents of violence and disruption were reported from different parts of the state, reinforcing Adhikari’s concerns. In Murshidabad, clashes between political groups, incidents of stone-pelting, and even crude bomb attacks created panic among residents and voters. Allegations of proxy voting and intimidation also surfaced, raising questions about the fairness of the electoral process.
Authorities had anticipated potential disturbances, with the Election Commission identifying over 8,000 polling booths as “super-sensitive” and deploying central forces to maintain order. Preventive measures, including arrests of suspected troublemakers, were carried out in the days leading up to the polls.
Despite these arrangements, political parties continued to trade accusations over violence and obstruction of voting. While the BJP alleged intimidation and attacks on its workers, the ruling Trinamool Congress denied the claims and accused opposition parties of spreading misinformation.
As polling progresses, the spotlight remains on security arrangements and the Election Commission’s ability to conduct peaceful elections. With high voter turnout and intense political rivalry, the outcome of the West Bengal Assembly elections is expected to have significant implications for the state’s political future.
