West Bengal Elections 2026 Phase 1 Sees Strong Turnout, Murshidabad Tension Grips Poll Day
The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 witnessed brisk voter participation on Thursday, with the Election Commission reporting 41.11% turnout by 11 am across constituencies voting in this round. While many polling stations saw orderly queues and enthusiastic participation, the day was overshadowed by political tension in Murshidabad after a visit linked to former Trinamool leader Humayun Kabir reportedly sparked clashes between supporters and police personnel.
Strong Early Turnout Across Key Seats
Polling began early in the morning under heavy security deployment across 152 assembly constituencies in 16 districts during Phase 1 of the election. Election officials said turnout remained encouraging in both rural and urban pockets, suggesting strong voter interest in what is being described as one of the state’s most crucial contests in recent years.
Long lines were reported in several booths as voters arrived before noon to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Women voters and first-time voters were seen participating in significant numbers.
Murshidabad Turns Flashpoint
Murshidabad district, already considered politically sensitive, became the focal point of the day after reports emerged of a confrontation involving supporters of Humayun Kabir and local police. According to reports, the clash followed movement restrictions and campaign-related tensions in the area.
Witnesses claimed heated arguments escalated into pushing and stone-pelting in parts of Nowda and nearby zones, prompting security intervention. Several people were reportedly injured.
Who Is Humayun Kabir?
Humayun Kabir, once a prominent Trinamool Congress MLA, has emerged as a disruptive figure in Murshidabad politics after launching his own political outfit ahead of the 2026 polls. His influence in Muslim-majority belts of the district has added a new dimension to the electoral contest, with observers watching whether he can cut into traditional TMC support.
His presence has especially drawn attention in constituencies such as Nowda and adjoining seats.
Massive Security Presence
Given the state’s history of poll-related violence, authorities deployed thousands of security personnel, including Central Armed Police Forces, to maintain order. Murshidabad alone received a substantial share of security deployment due to its sensitive status.
Election officials reiterated a zero-tolerance policy toward violence and warned that repolling could be ordered in any booth where voting was disrupted.
High-Stakes Battle Between TMC and BJP
The 2026 election is being viewed as another major showdown between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party, led in the state by Suvendu Adhikari. However, regional factors, rebels, and smaller parties could influence results in several seats.
Murshidabad, Malda, Nandigram, Kharagpur, and Siliguri are among the constituencies drawing special attention.
Voters Speak
Many voters interviewed outside booths said inflation, employment, law and order, and local development were among their top concerns. Some said they wanted stability, while others hoped for change.
Despite scattered incidents, polling largely continued in most areas under close monitoring.
What Happens Next
Phase 1 voting will continue till evening, after which polling officials will seal EVMs and transport them under security. The next phase of voting is scheduled for later this month, with results expected after counting day.
Political parties are expected to intensify campaigning immediately after today’s turnout trends become clear.
