West Bengal Election 2026 LIVE: Disorder and clashes reported as EVM glitches, delayed polling spark fresh controversy

West Bengal Election 2026 Phase Voting Marred by Violence, EVM Complaints and Delayed Polling

Voting in the latest phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 witnessed a tense start on Wednesday, with multiple districts reporting allegations of EVM malfunctions, delayed polling, clashes between rival party workers, and voter disruptions. The high-stakes electoral battle has once again brought Bengal’s politically charged atmosphere into sharp focus.

As polling began across key constituencies in South Bengal and Kolkata-linked regions, long queues formed outside booths while complaints emerged from several areas over faulty machines and slow voting processes.

EVM Glitches Trigger Frustration

One of the major talking points of the day was the reported malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at several booths.

Voters in some constituencies claimed they had to wait for extended periods after machines stopped functioning or required replacement. Polling staff were seen trying to restore systems as lines grew longer.

Election officials said technical teams were rushed to affected booths and normal voting resumed after brief interruptions.

Violence and Political Clashes Reported

Alongside technical issues, incidents of violence and vandalism were reported in parts of the state.

According to reports:

A BJP polling booth was allegedly vandalised
A TMC worker was reportedly attacked
Rival party workers accused each other of intimidation
Security forces had to intervene in some sensitive areas

These developments underlined the volatile political atmosphere surrounding the election Chaos Outside Polling Booths

Several booths saw confusion after voters alleged repeated failed attempts to cast votes due to machine errors or procedural delays.

In some urban pockets, heated arguments reportedly broke out between voters, polling staff, and local political workers. Security personnel were deployed to maintain order.

Observers noted that early morning delays can significantly affect turnout if not quickly resolved.

Mamata Banerjee Levels Serious Allegations

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission of India and central security forces of harassing her party workers and attempting to influence the democratic process.

She alleged that democracy was being “bulldozed” and said her party would remain vigilant throughout polling day.

The BJP rejected the claims and accused the ruling party of trying to create a narrative before results.

Sensitive Booths Under Watch

The Election Commission had already identified around 12,000 booths as vulnerable or sensitive ahead of this phase, prompting extra deployment of security personnel and close monitoring.

Officials said the aim was to ensure free and fair polling amid Bengal’s history of election-related tensions.

Why This Phase Matters

This round of polling is considered crucial because it covers politically symbolic urban and semi-urban constituencies where:

TMC seeks to retain dominance
BJP hopes to make major inroads
Opposition alliances aim to cut vote share margins

Analysts say today’s turnout and local incidents may influence momentum going into counting day.

Voter Sentiment Mixed

Many voters said they were determined to cast ballots despite delays.

Some citizens expressed anger over long waits, while others said heavy security made them feel safer.

Women and elderly voters were seen arriving early in several areas, showing strong participation despite tensions.

Security Forces on High Alert

Central forces and state police remained deployed around polling stations, especially in districts with a history of clashes.

Quick reaction teams, CCTV monitoring, and flying squads were reportedly active to control flashpoints.

Political Stakes Extremely High

The Bengal election is among the most watched state contests of 2026. For TMC, it is a battle to retain its fortress. For BJP, it is a chance to expand in eastern India. For national opposition politics, the result may shape narratives ahead of future national contests.

What Happens Next

Polling will continue till scheduled closing hours, after which sealed EVMs will be moved under tight security. Final turnout figures are expected later in the evening.

All eyes will then turn to: