KOLKATA – April 29, 2026 – The second phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly elections, covering 142 constituencies, has registered a turnout of 39.97% as of 11 a.m. today. The polling, which commenced this morning, is taking place across eight districts.
The electoral process is unfolding against a backdrop of reported incidents, including allegations of violence and vandalism in various areas. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced strong criticisms, characterizing the actions of "observers from outside" as being directed by the BJP. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has also accused BJP candidate Purnima Chakraborty of attacking party workers at a polling booth in Kolkata."
Key Figures and Voter Data
A total of 3,21,73,837 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, comprising 1,64,35,627 males, 1,57,37,418 females, and 792 third-gender voters. The Election Commission of India revised the voter lists prior to this phase, following Supreme Court directives. The first phase of polling, held on April 23, recorded a turnout of 93.19 percent.
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Political Undertones and Allegations
TMC spokesperson Saket Gokhale has questioned the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) amidst the ongoing polls, while CM Banerjee has described the situation as "terrorism." On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has expressed optimism for the BJP, claiming a "strong wave" in their favor and asserting that "mafia raj" is on its way out.
Notable figures casting their votes include TMC MP Mahua Moitra and BJP candidate Biman Ghosh from the Pursurah Assembly constituency. BJP candidate Priyanka Tibrewal was reportedly involved in a verbal spat at a Kolkata booth. Union Minister JP Nadda has urged voters, particularly the youth, to participate in the elections and "vote without fear."
High-Profile Contests and Election Schedule
This phase encompasses crucial seats, including strongholds of key leaders like Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari. Constituencies such as Bhabanipur and Arambagh are under particular scrutiny. The election results for all 294 seats are scheduled to be announced on May 4.
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The election schedule was announced by the Election Commission on March 15, with voting conducted in two phases across the state. Over 1,448 candidates are contesting in this second phase. Concerns have been raised regarding voter roll revisions, with allegations of deleted names and pending applications.
The overall political landscape is anticipated to be a tight contest between the Trinamool Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Left-Congress alliance.
