The second phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly election 2026 was marked by early disruptions in parts of Howrah, as reports of unrest and technical glitches in electronic voting machines (EVMs) surfaced from multiple polling stations.
Tension first erupted at a polling centre located in Don Bosco Sahnalal Vidyalaya in Liluah, under the Bally Assembly constituency, where EVM malfunctions at booths 152, 153, and 154 led to mounting frustration among voters. Many alleged that despite waiting in queues since early morning, they were unable to cast their votes due to repeated breakdowns of the machines.
Eyewitnesses reported that what began as verbal complaints soon escalated into pushing and shoving, as tempers flared within the premises. “I have been standing in line since dawn, only to be told that the machine isn’t working,” said one voter, expressing anger over the lack of clear communication. Another alleged that repeated appeals for resolution were met with inaction.
As the situation deteriorated, central forces deployed at the site allegedly resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and restore order. Local sources claimed that several individuals sustained injuries during the baton-charge, while police confirmed that two persons were detained in connection with the disturbance. Officials, however, maintained that the action was necessary to maintain law and order amid escalating tensions.
A large police contingent was subsequently deployed, and Commissioner of Police Praveen Tripathi visited the site to personally assess the situation. Under heightened security supervision, the situation was eventually brought under control, though the incident has raised questions over preparedness and contingency planning on a crucial polling day.
Meanwhile, separate reports of unrest emerged from the South Howrah Assembly constituency, where BJP candidate Shyamalkumar Hati alleged voter harassment at a polling station in Thanamakhua Model High School. He questioned the role of the sector officer, claiming that despite sufficient space inside the booth, voters were being made to wait outside along Andul Road, resulting in long queues and slow progress of voting.
“There is vacant space inside, yet people are being kept waiting on the road. This slow pace appears deliberate,” Hati said, adding that such delays could create apprehension among voters and potentially benefit a particular political faction. He confirmed that a formal complaint had been lodged with higher authorities.
Voters at the site echoed similar concerns, with many expressing frustration over the sluggish pace of polling. Several pointed out that the prolonged waiting time was especially difficult for elderly individuals and women standing in queues.
No official response had been issued by the administration regarding these allegations at the time of reporting. With such incidents unfolding early in the day, concerns over electoral management and security arrangements have intensified, adding to the already charged atmosphere surrounding the ongoing elections.
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