West Bengal Election Phase 2: Mamata Accuses EC of 'Terrorism', NIA Deployed Amid EVM Issues
West Bengal's second and final phase of Assembly elections saw a high voter turnout amidst allegations of "terrorism" by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee against the Election Commission. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was deployed in some constituencies due to concerns over potential violence. Reports of EVM failures and sporadic incidents of violence were noted, with both the BJP and TMC trading accusations.
Key Highlights
- Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission of 'terrorism' during Phase 2 polling.
- The NIA was deployed in several Assembly seats due to security concerns.
- Reports of EVM failures and sporadic violence were observed across various constituencies.
- Both BJP and TMC engaged in accusations regarding electoral malpractices.
- Voter turnout for the second phase was significant, with some districts reporting higher percentages.
The second and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 commenced on April 29, 2026, with polling held across 142 constituencies in seven districts. Voter turnout was reported to be substantial, with initial figures indicating around 18.39% by 9 AM and climbing to 39.97% by 11 AM in the affected districts like Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, Howrah, and Kolkata. The Election Commission of India (ECI) deployed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in at least seven Assembly seats as a precautionary measure against potential violence and disruption during polling. This deployment came amid heightened political tensions and allegations made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who accused the Election Commission of indulging in "terrorism" and of acting at the behest of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Banerjee alleged that observers from outside were interfering with the polls and that central forces were not acting impartially.
Sporadic incidents of violence and EVM malfunctions were reported from various parts of the state during the early hours of voting. The BJP alleged ballot tampering in some booths, specifically in Falta, claiming voters were obstructed from selecting their candidates and demanding a repoll. Conversely, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) also reported clashes and alleged that its workers were hospitalized due to violence in areas like Bhangar. The BJP candidate from Bhabanipur, Suvendu Adhikari, was notably in the fray against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and made statements asserting that "All Hindus are voting for the BJP." Other prominent figures, including BJP leader Swapan Dasgupta and TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, cast their votes and expressed confidence in their respective parties' prospects. The Election Commission stated that polling was proceeding peacefully, barring some minor incidents for which reports were sought.
The scale of the second phase was significant, covering nearly half of West Bengal's total Assembly seats. A total of 1,448 candidates were in the fray, including 220 women, with 41,001 polling stations, more than 8,000 of which were managed entirely by women. The election narrative was dominated by the fierce contest between the ruling TMC and the BJP, with both parties trading accusations of rigging, violence, and malpractices. The deployment of the NIA was a notable development, signaling the ECI's serious approach to maintaining law and order, especially in sensitive areas. The claims of "terrorism" by Mamata Banerjee against the EC highlighted the deep-seated political acrimony surrounding the elections. Reports of EVM glitches, though occurring at multiple booths, were being addressed by election officials, with the Election Commission emphasizing peaceful conduct overall. The final outcome of this crucial phase was set to determine the political future of West Bengal, with significant implications for both major parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main allegations made by Mamata Banerjee during the West Bengal Election Phase 2?
Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of indulging in "terrorism" and alleged that the Election Commission officials and central forces were acting under the directions of the BJP.
Why was the NIA deployed during the West Bengal Election Phase 2?
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was deployed in several Assembly seats as a precautionary measure to ensure that bombs were not used to disrupt polling and to maintain law and order.
What kind of issues were reported during the polling for West Bengal Election Phase 2?
Reports of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) failures and malfunctions, as well as sporadic incidents of violence and clashes between political party supporters, were reported from various constituencies.