Polling for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections commenced today, April 23, 2026, with an initial voter turnout of 18.76% recorded by 9 a.m. The electoral process spans 152 Assembly seats across 16 districts, divided between eight constituencies in North Bengal and eight in South Bengal. Approximately 3.60 crore voters are set to cast their ballots to decide the fate of 1,478 candidates. The vote count is scheduled for May 4.
The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), aiming for a fourth consecutive term, faces a critical juncture in influencing the political momentum of the broader election. A key battleground is North Bengal, where preventing a surge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seen as vital for shaping the overall electoral narrative. The second phase of polling is slated for April 29, encompassing 142 seats, including those in and around Kolkata.
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Tensions in Murshidabad Amidst Bomb Hurling Incident
Reports from Murshidabad's Nowda area indicate that several individuals sustained injuries following the hurling of a crude bomb. This incident adds a layer of tension to the ongoing electoral exercise in West Bengal.
High-Profile Figures Cast Votes
Across both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, prominent political figures participated in the voting process. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin cast his vote in Chennai, expressing optimism, stating, "Tamil Nadu will win." His wife, Durga Stalin, also exercised her franchise. The BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan, a candidate from Mylapore, voiced her confidence, saying, "NDA will win with blessings of God and people." Other notable figures seen voting include Udhayanidhi Stalin, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Edappadi Palaniswami of the AIADMK, and Congress's Malda candidate, Mausam Noor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens in both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu to participate "enthusiastically" in the democratic process.
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Electoral Landscape and Key Players
The West Bengal election is particularly significant for the TMC as it seeks to consolidate its position. The BJP's performance in North Bengal is being closely watched as a potential indicator of broader shifts. In Tamil Nadu, where polling is being held for all 234 seats, the contest involves established parties and new entrants. The actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party TVK could introduce a three-way dynamic to the race.
International delegates, part of the IEVP 2026 initiative, were welcomed at polling stations in Darjeeling, West Bengal, as observed by the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal.
The overarching narrative of the elections involves a high-stakes contest, with key leaders like Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin, Suvendu Adhikari, and Vijay drawing significant attention.
