The first phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly Elections was marred by violence in several districts, with a major incident reported from Kumarganj in South Dinajpur where BJP candidate Subhendu Sarkar was allegedly assaulted. Tension began early Thursday near Booth No. 24 in Kumarganj amid allegations that the BJP’s polling agent was being prevented from entering the booth.
Upon receiving the information, Sarkar rushed to the spot. According to his account, the situation escalated rapidly after his arrival, with a group—allegedly backed by the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC)—surrounding him and subjecting him to verbal abuse.
Sarkar alleged that he was dragged out of his vehicle in the presence of local police and physically assaulted. Eyewitness visuals circulating from the scene appear to show a mob attacking him, while his vehicle was also vandalised. He has since been admitted for medical treatment with reported injuries.
Local BJP leaders have questioned the role of the district administration, alleging a serious security lapse. They claimed that central forces were absent during the attack and that the Quick Response Team failed to reach the spot in time.
Taking cognisance of the incident, the Election Commission has expressed strong displeasure and directed authorities to identify and arrest those responsible. The Commission has also sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the district police and demanded an explanation regarding the delay in deployment of central forces. Additional security personnel have since been deployed in the area.
Violence was not limited to Kumarganj. In Bhramarkol village under Labpur in Birbhum district, BJP polling agent Biswajit Mandal was allegedly attacked with rods and sticks, sustaining a head injury. He has been admitted to Suri Hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, tension also surfaced in Mathabhanga in Cooch Behar district following allegations that BJP candidate Nisith Pramanik was distributing cash among voters while surrounded by supporters.
Despite the unrest, voter turnout remained significant. By 11:00 am, the state recorded an average turnout of 41.11 per cent. West Medinipur district reported the highest turnout at 44.69 per cent, while Malda district lagged behind at 38.22 per cent.
With rising temperatures and escalating political clashes, the opening phase of the state elections has unfolded amid both high voter participation and serious concerns over law and order.
Follow us
