Polling is underway in parts of West Bengal during Phase 1 of the 2026 Assembly elections, with officials reporting a smooth start in the Birbhum district. According to election authorities, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are functioning properly, ensuring a hassle-free voting experience for citizens.
Voters began arriving at polling booths early in the morning in Birbhum, forming queues even before the scheduled start of voting hours. Enthusiasm among voters, including first-time participants and elderly citizens, was visible as they turned out to exercise their democratic right.
Officials from the Election Commission of India confirmed that mock polling was conducted prior to the commencement of voting. This helped verify that all EVMs and VVPAT systems were working accurately. After the successful completion of these checks, the machines were cleared for actual voting.
Security arrangements have been significantly tightened in the district, with central forces deployed at sensitive polling stations to maintain law and order. Continuous monitoring through webcasting and on-ground surveillance is also being carried out to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
While minor technical glitches were reported from a few booths earlier in the day, they were resolved promptly by technical teams without causing major disruptions. Officials reiterated that polling is proceeding peacefully across most areas of the district.
Birbhum is among the key districts in this phase of voting, and turnout trends here are expected to be closely watched. With EVMs functioning smoothly and voters participating actively, the polling process has so far reflected a well-managed and orderly democratic exercise.
