EC Orders Repoll in Falta Amid TMC-BJP Clash

Abhishek Banerjee challenges BJP to fight polls in Falta as repoll ordered in all 285 booths; TMC alleges BJP car entered strong room in Kolkata

Tension gripped West Bengal's political circles on Sunday as the Election Commission ordered fresh polling across all 285 booths in the Falta assembly constituency on May 21, following allegations of severe electoral malpractices during the April 29 phase-two voting. The decision, which covers the South 24 Parganas seat falling under Abhishek Banerjee's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha turf, drew sharp barbs from both Trinamool Congress and BJP leaders ahead of Monday's vote counting.

Falta Repoll Trigger

Reports from the ground pointed to EVM tampering claims, with BJP alleging that party buttons were taped over at several booths in Falta, blocking voters from selecting their symbol. "People in Falta haven't been able to vote freely for years," BJP's Dilip Ghosh said earlier, highlighting intimidation by local mafia.[query] The EC cited "subversion of the democratic process" in its order, prompting repoll across the entire constituency despite heavy security deployment.

Abhishek's Bold Dare

TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee fired back on X, slamming BJP as "Bengal Birodhi" and challenging them to contest Falta themselves. "It will take ten lifetimes for them to dent the Diamond Harbour model," he posted, responding to BJP's Amit Malviya who claimed the model had crumbled. Sources close to TMC said Banerjee's post aimed to rally workers amid the repoll buzz, with party agents instructed to stay vigilant at counting centers.

Strong Room Stir

In Kolkata, a TMC worker alleged a white car bearing BJP's logo and "Army" markings entered a Bhabanipur strong room unchecked on Saturday, sparking protests outside Sakhawat Memorial school.[query] "Police didn't even stop it—how can any vehicle go inside?" the worker told ANI, as heavy security blanketed the site. BJP dismissed it as TMC drama, with women workers planning 24-hour vigils outside strong rooms statewide.

SC Backs EC Move

The Supreme Court refused to meddle in TMC's plea against deploying central employees as counting staff, directing EC to follow its circular "in letter and spirit." Justices P S Narasimha and Joymallya Bagchi noted the poll body's autonomy, while EC ramped up oversight with 165 extra counting observers and 77 police observers across Bengal.

Pre-Counting Prayers

BJP candidates hit temples ahead of May 4 counting—Ghatal's Sital Kapat at Vishalakshi, Kolkata Port's Rakesh Singh locally, and Shyampukur's Purnima Chakraborty at Durgeshwar Mahadev.[query] Rakesh Singh exuded confidence: "Celebrations have begun; TMC won't be seen even through a telescope."[query] TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, meanwhile, held a Purulia workshop urging agents not to budge from centers.

Security Layers Tighten

EC announced three-layer security at counting halls in Bengal and other states, amid accusations of booth capturing and violence in Falta.[query] BJP's Shehzad Poonawalla called Monday's results the end of TMC's "reign of terror," while state BJP chief Sanjay Saraogi predicted Mamata's defeat based on exit polls.[query] TMC hit back, blaming EC lapses.

What's Next

With repoll set for May 21 and results due tomorrow, Falta remains a flashpoint testing Bengal's poll machinery. BJP plans temple runs and vigils, as TMC eyes its strongholds. Observers say heightened security could ease tensions, but ground reports suggest agents from both sides are on high alert.

Repolling began on Saturday morning at 15 booths in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district following complaints of irregularities during the second phase of Assembly elections on April 29. Voting commenced at 7 am and is scheduled to continue till 6 pm under heavy security deployment.

By 1 pm, officials reported 56.33% voter turnout in Magrahat West and 54.9% in Diamond Harbour. Earlier figures showed 38.2% in Magrahat Paschim and 35.92% in Diamond Harbour till 11 am, indicating a gradual pickup through the day.

Fresh Polling After Alleged Irregularities

The Election Commission ordered fresh voting at 11 booths in Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour after reports of EVM-related issues and other complaints from the April 29 polling. Specific booths include Bagda Junior High School (PS 117), Roynagar Primary School (PS 243), and several in Najra and Ektara areas.

Local authorities confirmed that Central forces were deployed in strength, particularly in sensitive pockets like Falta and Airpur panchayat. Visuals from polling stations showed queues of voters, with elderly citizens and women with infants being assisted by security personnel.

Minor Glitches and Quick Response

At booth 243 in Roynagar Primary School, Diamond Harbour, a voter reported an EVM malfunction early in the day, leading to a temporary halt of about an hour. Officials intervened promptly, resolved the technical issue, and resumed polling. Such incidents remained isolated, with no major disruptions reported by afternoon.

Brief Tension in Magrahat West

Tension flared briefly in Airpur panchayat under Magrahat Paschim when BJP candidate Gaur Sundar Ghosh arrived at a polling area. TMC workers reportedly raised “Joy Bangla” slogans, prompting intervention by security forces. The situation was brought under control quickly, and polling continued without further escalation.

Local residents in Falta also staged protests alleging threats by political workers, adding to the charged atmosphere. However, both TMC and BJP traded accusations, with the ruling party claiming the BJP was trying to create disturbances.

Political Reactions Pour In

Trinamool Congress leaders, including MP Saugata Roy, described repolling as “not unusual” in Indian elections and cited past instances. Senior TMC leaders raised separate concerns over strong room security and postal ballot handling in Kolkata, with Shashi Panja highlighting alleged lapses at a North Kolkata facility. BJP leaders welcomed the EC’s decision, asserting it addressed genuine complaints of malpractice in TMC-influenced areas.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya welcomed the repolling and predicted a tough time for TMC, while state BJP leaders like Dilip Ghosh dismissed reports of widespread tension as “political theatrics.”

Broader Election Context

West Bengal recorded exceptionally high overall turnout, with 92.84% across 294 seats. The first phase on April 23 saw 93.19% voting, and the second phase on April 29 registered 92.48%. Results for all seats are expected on May 4.

The repolling exercise comes amid heightened political activity. TMC chief Mamata Banerjee and national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee are scheduled to hold a virtual meeting with counting agents later on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court dismissed a TMC plea regarding the appointment of central government employees as counting supervisors.

Security has been tightened at strong rooms across Kolkata, with prohibitory orders in place in key areas. Three-layer verification, including QR code-based identity cards, will be enforced on counting day.

As polling progresses in these 15 booths, all eyes remain on whether this fresh exercise restores full confidence in the process. Officials said they were monitoring the situation closely, with results from these booths to be counted along with the rest on Monday.

Mamata-Abishek to Address Counting Agents Today Amid Strong Room Tampering Fears

TMC leadership to hold virtual meet at 4 pm; agents asked to stay vigilant as Bengal awaits Lok Sabha results

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee will hold a virtual meeting with counting agents on Saturday evening, party sources confirmed. The 4 pm session comes as the ruling party raises concerns over possible tampering inside strong rooms where EVMs are stored ahead of the June 4 vote count.

Virtual Meet at 4 pm

The online briefing will cover counting-day protocols, with emphasis on maintaining constant watch at each table. According to officials familiar with the planning, nearly all booth-level agents have been assigned and will receive final instructions before the meeting ends. The TMC leadership is not leaving anything to chance this time.

Agents Told to Ignore Exit Polls

Sources indicate that Abhishek Banerjee will specifically ask counting agents to disregard exit poll projections entirely. "Stay alert till the last round is completed," a party insider quoted the instruction. Agents have been told that substitutes must be ready to step in whenever needed, and any unusual activity near counting tables requires immediate reporting to the candidate's representative.

Strong Room Tensions in Kolkata

The directive follows heightened anxieties around strong room security over the past fortnight. At Shakhaowat Memorial School in south Kolkata, TMC representatives had flagged what they called "loose access protocols" last week. Similar concerns emerged from Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, where party workers reported unauthorised personnel movement during late evening hours. Local authorities have denied any irregularities, but the opposition remains unconvinced.

Discipline Over Provocation

Agents will receive a clear message about maintaining restraint inside counting centres. "Do not engage in arguments. Do not walk away from your post. Report, don't react," a draft advisory reportedly states. The party expects nearly 50,000 agents across Bengal's 42 constituencies to remain on guard through what could be a long counting day. Many will work in 12-hour shifts, with limited breaks.

What Happens Next

Counting of votes for all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal begins at 8 am on June 4. Postal ballots will be taken up first, followed by EVM counts. The TMC has set up district-level control rooms to receive real-time updates from agents. Mamata Banerjee is expected to be at her Kalighat residence through the day, monitoring trends as they emerge. For now, the message is simple: watch every vote, trust no shortcut, and stay till the final number is called out.

Supreme Court Rejects TMC Plea Against Central Staff Deployment for Bengal Vote Counting

Bench upholds EC’s authority to appoint PSU, government employees as counting supervisors; TMC had alleged political bias

The Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed a petition filed by the All India Trinamool Congress challenging the appointment of central government and public sector undertaking employees as counting supervisors for the West Bengal Assembly elections.

A special bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi ruled that the Election Commission’s circular issued on April 13, 2026, would remain in force and that no separate court order was required on the matter.

No relief from top court

The TMC had approached the Supreme Court after the Calcutta High Court turned down its objections last week. The party argued that deploying only central and PSU employees as counting supervisors could influence the counting process in favour of political opponents.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for TMC, told the bench that his party did not expect justice from the Election Commission. The court, however, declined to intervene, stating that no direction could be issued to the poll body on this question.

High Court had upheld EC’s jurisdiction

The Calcutta High Court had earlier rejected the TMC’s plea, observing that the appointment of counting personnel falls squarely within the Election Commission’s jurisdiction. The court found no illegality in the move and noted that allegations of political influence on central government employees remained unsubstantiated.

The High Court had also said any grievances regarding the counting process could be raised through an election petition after the results.

EC defends its authority

Responding to the developments, West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal said political parties do not have the right to decide who should be part of the counting process. “The entire process is under the jurisdiction of the returning officer,” he told reporters in Kolkata.

Election Commission officials added that the April 13 circular was issued to ensure transparency and uniformity across all counting centres.

What happens next

Counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections is scheduled over the coming week. With the Supreme Court’s dismissal, central government and PSU employees will continue to serve as counting supervisors across the state’s 294 constituencies.

Political observers say the ruling removes a last-minute procedural hurdle but could keep tensions high between the state government and the poll body. TMC has not indicated whether it plans to file a review petition.

West Bengal Repolling: 38.2% Turnout in Magrahat West Till 11 AM

Re-polling at 15 booths in Diamond Harbour, Magrahat West sees steady turnout amid tight security and EVM complaints, with officials monitoring closely for fair process.

KOLKATA: Re-polling kicked off at 7 am on Saturday across 15 polling booths in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, focusing on four stations in Diamond Harbour and 11 in Magrahat West. By 11 am, officials reported 38.2% voter turnout in Magrahat West and 35.92% in Diamond Harbour, building on earlier figures of 16.68% and 15.83% till 9 am respectively.

The Election Commission ordered the fresh voting after complaints of clashes and alleged EVM tampering during the second phase polls on April 29. Polling will run till 6 pm under heavy security, with Rapid Action Force teams deployed in Magrahat Paschim and central forces at key spots.

Early Morning Glitches

Things didn't start smoothly everywhere. At a Diamond Harbour booth, voting halted for nearly an hour due to an EVM malfunction, leading to long queues and frustrated voters. One voter alleged delays from the glitch, while visuals showed lines snaking outside Bagda Junior High School's booth number 117.

In Magrahat Paschim, booths 126 and 127 at Najra saw heavy turnout from the word go, with queues forming well before opening. Security personnel assisted elderly voters, and a woman was spotted casting her vote with an infant in Diamond Harbour.

Security Blanket Thickens

Authorities ramped up measures amid the scrutiny. Tight security marked proceedings, especially after recent strong room controversies. CCTV at Barasat Government College's strong room was found switched off, fueling tensions, while forces guarded Netaji Indoor Stadium and Jadavpur counting centre.

Local officials confirmed no major incidents so far, but monitoring remains intense. Initial reports indicate a peaceful flow despite the hiccups.

Political Crossfire Heats Up

Leaders from both sides weighed in. BJP's Dilip Ghosh from Kharagpur Sadar dismissed unrest claims, accusing TMC of "political theatrics" and "drama outside" to fire up workers. "No problem anywhere on the ground," he insisted.

In Diamond Harbour, BJP's Goursundar Ghosh flagged irregularities but expressed victory confidence. Suvendu Adhikari alleged contractual staff in vote counting and pushed for more re-polling booths, saying it "should have happened in more places." BJP MP Rahul Sinha backed the process, while candidate Arjun Singh from Noapara supported fresh voting over tampering claims.

TMC faced barbs too. BJP's Purnima Chakraborty targeted Shashi Panja, calling her strong room allegations "drama" born of "fear of defeat." Panja visited Netaji Indoor Stadium's strong room earlier, amid TMC claims of issues at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra.

Voter Turnout Builds

The midday numbers suggest steady participation. Magrahat West's 38.2% edged ahead of Diamond Harbour's 35.92%, with visuals from booth 243 and 194 showing brisk movement. Sukanta Majumdar linked high turnout to BJP support.

Meanwhile, TMC gears up separately. Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee will brief counting agents virtually this afternoon, two days before results, to coordinate strategy.

Strong Room Shadows Linger

The re-polling unfolds against a backdrop of strong room rows. Post-April 29 polls, TMC leaders alleged irregularities in EVM storage, with Mamata and Suvendu Adhikari visiting sites. BJP candidates countered that "strong rooms are safe, EVMs secure."

Sources familiar with the matter said the EC aimed to restore faith through these measures. No fresh complaints of violence surfaced by midday.

This exercise in South 24 Parganas could influence close races, with eyes now on smooth closure and results. Officials expect turnout to climb higher by evening, as polling continues without further major hitches.

BJP to Test Leaders on Party Ideology in MP Training Programs

District sessions to include mandatory exams; mobiles banned like competitive exams

 The Bharatiya Janata Party in Madhya Pradesh is setting new standards for internal training, introducing a structured assessment program that includes written examinations for party leaders attending district-level training camps this month.

Participants will undergo post-training tests designed to evaluate their grasp of party ideology, historical context, current challenges, and technological literacy. This marks a significant shift in how the party measures the effectiveness of its organisational strengthening initiatives.

Phones Restricted Like Competitive Tests

Mobile phones will be collected at the training venue counters before sessions begin, mirroring the security protocols used in national entrance examinations like NEET and UPSC. Participants will receive token numbers against their devices, similar to the practice in competitive exams.

A dedicated mobile counter has been set up at each training location to streamline the collection process. Party officials said this ensures focus and prevents distractions during intensive sessions.

Post-Training Assessment Format

The examination structure will directly assess retention of material covered during training. Questions will focus on party history, current organisational policies, contemporary challenges, and technical competencies introduced during sessions.

Officials confirmed that the test format will evaluate not just factual recall but conceptual understanding of party principles and policies.

Broader Organisational Push

The training initiative is part of a larger effort to strengthen the BJP's ground-level presence across Madhya Pradesh. Party leadership is simultaneously working on fresh organisational appointments and cadre development across districts.

Sources familiar with the matter said the move reflects the party's intent to create a more informed and skilled leadership base capable of addressing both traditional and digital challenges in election cycles ahead.

Strict Adherence Expected

Party officials emphasised that participation in training is mandatory for leaders and functionaries at district and block levels. The examination component is non-negotiable and will be factored into future organisational assessments.

Local authorities confirmed that similar protocols have been adopted across multiple training venues to ensure uniformity and prevent any lapses in implementation.

Forward-Looking Framework

The BJP's approach signals a professionalisation of its internal training ecosystem. By combining classroom instruction with rigorous assessment, the party aims to ensure that its cadre remains updated on both ideological foundations and contemporary political dynamics.

State officials suggested this model could be expanded to block and village levels if outcomes prove effective in the current district-level rollout.

Section 163 Imposed Outside Kolkata Strong Rooms Amid EVM Tampering Row; Mamata Spends 4 Hours at Bhabanipur Facility

Security tightened at seven locations until May 4 as TMC and BJP trade allegations over strong room access and postal ballot handling

Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) has been clamped outside strong rooms across Kolkata until May 4, with authorities moving to restrict unlawful assembly and movement in sensitive areas following overnight tensions over alleged unauthorised access to EVM storage facilities.

The restrictions cover seven locations including Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, Hastings House Complex, APC Roy Polytechnic College, St. Thomas Boys’ High School, Sakhawat Memorial Government Girls’ High School, Ballygunge Government High School, and Babasaheb Ambedkar Education University.

Late Night Visit

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee spent approximately four hours inside the strong room at Sakhawat Memorial Government Girls’ High School late Thursday night, emerging around 12:30 am. Officials said she visited the facility after her party raised concerns over suspected irregular activity.

Speaking after the visit, Banerjee warned of strong resistance against any attempt to tamper with EVMs or manipulate the vote count. She alleged that central forces briefly stopped her from accessing the area outside the strong room before she was allowed entry.

Protest at Khudiram Kendra

Trouble first flared around 8 pm at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, where TMC candidate Kunal Ghosh and minister Shashi Panja staged a sit-in protest. The demonstration came after a video shared by the TMC on X showed what the party claimed were Election Commission officials along with BJP members attempting to open ballot boxes.

Election Commission officials tried to convince the TMC leaders, but they continued their strike until around 9 pm. Seeing the gathering of both TMC and BJP workers swell, a large number of security forces were deployed. By 9:30 pm, BJP workers accused the Bengal Police of lathi charge amid sloganeering and uproar.

EC Clarifies Position

The Election Commission of India has rejected all tampering allegations. In a statement, officials clarified that seven Assembly constituency strong rooms are located within the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, all of which were closed and sealed in the presence of candidates, election agents, and the General Observer after polling concluded. The final strong room was sealed at approximately 5:15 am.

The Commission stated that a separate strong room within the premises has been designated for postal ballots. Segregation of ballots was carried out from 4 pm in the corridor outside the strong rooms, and political parties were formally informed via email.

Political Reactions

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed on social media that the party’s election agent, advocate Suryaneel Das, remained inside the strong room premises during Banerjee’s visit and kept a close watch to ensure no irregular activity took place.

State BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya said Banerjee is “unable to digest her defeat,” adding that if she believes the BJP and the Election Commission are synonymous, she should approach the Supreme Court. BJP leader Rahul Sinha asserted that Banerjee has “accepted defeat even before counting.”

TMC MP Saugata Roy maintained that “unauthorised people entered the strong room from outside” and alleged that some individuals from Gujarat were shouting slogans outside the school where votes for the Chief Minister’s constituency will be counted.

Security Beefed Up

Kolkata Police Joint Commissioner Rupesh Kumar said additional CAPF and state forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, with extra guard rails placed at key locations. Access to CCTV footage of strong rooms will be restricted to authorised personnel only, with parties required to submit names of agents who can view the feed.

TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee will hold a virtual meeting on Friday with counting agents and key party stakeholders to review preparedness ahead of the vote count.

West Bengal Polls See Record 92.75% Turnout Across Phases

West Bengal voter turnout touches record high as state logs over 92% participation; other states in Phase 1 also report strong polling

West Bengal has recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in an Assembly election, with a combined 92.75% participation across two phases, according to data released by the Election Commission of India. The figure surpasses the previous record of 84.72% set in 2011, marking a significant rise in voter engagement.

Polling for the 294-member Assembly was conducted in two phases — 152 seats on April 23 and 142 seats on Wednesday. The second phase alone saw a turnout of 92.32%, while the first phase had already set the tone with an impressive 93%.

Record turnout trend

The sharp rise in participation has drawn attention across political and administrative circles. Officials said the turnout remained consistently high through the day, with many booths witnessing long queues from early morning till late evening.

Compared to previous elections, including the 2021 Assembly polls and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, voter participation in the same constituencies has increased notably, even as the overall number of registered voters saw a decline after roll revisions.

Scattered violence reported

Despite the high turnout, the second phase was not entirely incident-free. At least seven instances of unrest, clashes, or alleged irregularities were reported from different districts.

In parts of Howrah, central forces resorted to lathi-charge after voters protested delays caused by malfunctioning EVMs. Some individuals were detained during the unrest.

Elsewhere in South 24 Parganas, a scuffle broke out between voters and security personnel at a polling booth in Canning. Visuals from the scene showed pushing and jostling, including among women voters.

EVM complaints surface

The Bharatiya Janata Party raised concerns about alleged tampering with EVMs in Falta, claiming that its button was blocked with tape. A video circulated by the party appeared to show the issue.

The Election Commission responded cautiously, stating that any verified complaint would be addressed, including the possibility of re-polling. In another case in Panihati, an ink stain reportedly found on a party symbol was cleaned at the booth itself.

Political tensions visible

Tensions also flared in Bhabanipur, where BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari faced protests from supporters of the All India Trinamool Congress. Slogans were raised as he visited a polling area close to the residence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Adhikari responded with counter-slogans, highlighting the charged political atmosphere that marked parts of the polling process.

Fatality during polling

In a separate incident in Udaynarayanpur, an elderly voter died after collapsing while at a polling booth. The Trinamool Congress alleged that the individual had been pushed by security personnel, though officials have not confirmed the claim. The man was declared dead at a nearby hospital.

Reasons behind surge

Several factors appear to have contributed to the unprecedented turnout. Election officials pointed to stricter monitoring and the deployment of around 2.4 lakh central forces, which may have reassured voters about safety.

Political analysts also cite strong voter mobilisation driven by issues such as unemployment, corruption allegations, and local-level dissatisfaction. Additionally, polarisation in certain regions and the return of migrant workers to cast their votes are believed to have played a role.

Other states’ turnout

High voter participation was not limited to West Bengal. Tamil Nadu recorded a historic 85.14% turnout across all 234 constituencies, its highest since 1967. In Assam, turnout stood at 85.91%, with several districts crossing the 80% mark.

Puducherry also reported a record 89.87% polling, while Kerala logged the lowest among the five, at just over 78%.

Counting on May 4

The results for all five states will be declared on May 4. With record turnout in key states like West Bengal, the outcome is expected to reflect a highly engaged electorate and could significantly shape the political landscape in the region.

A fresh legal twist has emerged in the ongoing political controversy surrounding the merger of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha members into the BJP, with Navneet Chaturvedi filing a caveat before the Supreme Court of India.

The caveat, registered as Caveat No. 8080/2026 under the title Navneet Chaturvedi vs Aam Aadmi Party, seeks to ensure that Chaturvedi is heard before any orders are passed, particularly in anticipation of a likely writ petition by Aam Aadmi Party challenging the merger approval.The development follows the April 27 approval by the Rajya Sabha Chairman for the merger of seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs into the BJP. Chaturvedi has formally objected to the inclusion of Rajinder Gupta in this list, while stating he has no objection to the remaining six members switching parties.

Legal challenge focused on Rajinder Gupta

Chaturvedi’s objection hinges on an ongoing election dispute. He has already challenged Rajinder Gupta’s election through Election Petition EP-2/2025 before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, where notice has been issued and the matter remains pending.

According to Chaturvedi, Gupta’s shift to the BJP is a strategic move aimed at safeguarding his Rajya Sabha seat. He argues that since Gupta’s election is under judicial scrutiny, he should not be permitted to change political affiliation until the case is resolved.

Chaturvedi has asserted that he is an “aggrieved party” with clear locus standi to challenge Gupta’s political move. His caveat is intended to secure his right to intervene in any Supreme Court proceedings arising from the merger dispute.

He has also indicated that he is preparing an intervention application (IA) to formally participate if AAP proceeds with its expected constitutional challenge against the merger approval.

Chaturvedi also clarified that his legal battle is not aligned with any political party, including the BJP or AAP. He linked the current developments to past events in October 2025, when his nomination was allegedly rejected under contentious circumstances.

He further claimed that individuals who had earlier accused him of being a “BJP agent” and associated with “Operation Lotus” have now themselves joined the BJP. He accused them of attempting to influence AAP MLAs in Punjab and misleading BJP leadership.

Chaturvedi’s plea does not challenge the entire merger. Instead, it seeks a narrow relief: the exclusion of Rajinder Gupta from the list of seven Rajya Sabha members whose merger has been approved—at least until the election petition is decided.

With AAP expected to move the Supreme Court against the merger approval, Chaturvedi’s caveat ensures that the court will have to hear him before issuing any interim or final orders. The matter is likely to add another legal layer to an already politically sensitive dispute involving party defections, constitutional provisions, and pending electoral litigation.

WB Phase 2 logs 78.7% turnout till 3 pm; BJP, TMC trade blame

West Bengal Election 2026 sees allegations of EVM tape and violence; EC orders repoll for booths where complaints are confirmed.

High-stakes voting amid sporadic clashes

Voting for 142 assembly constituencies in the second phase of the West Bengal Election 2026 remained largely peaceful but was punctuated by scattered violence, allegations of EVM tampering, and political face-offs on Wednesday. As of 3 pm, the state recorded a voter turnout of 78.68%, with numbers expected to climb as evening reports trickle in.

Polling began at 7 am across sensitive zones, including high-profile seats like Bhabanipur, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is seeking a fourth consecutive term. Long queues were seen outside booths from North 24 Parganas to Hooghly, with many voters waiting since before dawn.

Tape on EVM button sparks row

The most technical flashpoint emerged from Falta in Diamond Harbour. The Bharatiya Janata Party alleged that tape had been placed over the party’s symbol button on electronic voting machines, effectively blocking voters from selecting the BJP candidate.

“The button for our symbol was deliberately covered,” a local BJP agent claimed. Responding swiftly, the Election Commission of India stated that re-polling would be conducted at any polling station where complaints of white or black tape on EVMs are found to be true. Officials confirmed that if a large number of booths in a single constituency report the same issue, a full repoll could be ordered.

Suvendu-Mamata face-off in Bhabanipur

Tensions ran high in Bhabanipur, the traditional turf of CM Mamata Banerjee. BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari, who defeated her in Nandigram in 2021, was met with slogans of “chor-chor” and “Joy Bangla” during a booth visit.

Adhikari alleged that the protesters were “Bangladeshi-origin Muslims” whose names were not on the voter list, claiming the incident would shift votes in his favour. Local councillor Kajari Bandopadhyay dismissed his claims, saying, “He cannot win, and that is why he is creating a ruckus.” Shortly after, central forces resorted to a mild lathi-charge to disperse a crowd near booth numbers 217 and 218.

Attacks on candidates and live bombs

Ground reports from multiple districts painted a scattered picture of unrest. In South 24 Parganas, BJP candidate Bikash Sardar alleged that miscreants smashed his vehicle’s windows and tried to snatch a firearm from his security personnel. In Panihati, BJP candidate Ratna Debnath claimed she was attacked by “TMC goons” after helping an elderly woman.

More alarming was the recovery of six live bombs near Booth No. 35 in Biruri village, Ketugram. Police confirmed the explosives were found in a nylon bag and a bomb disposal squad was rushed to the site. Meanwhile, CRPF personnel had to detain two individuals in Howrah for creating a ruckus over alleged EVM tampering.

High turnout and what’s next

Over 3.21 crore voters were eligible to decide the fate of 1,448 candidates in this phase. The first phase on April 23 recorded a historic 93% turnout. Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal expressed confidence that final numbers for phase 2 might surpass that figure.

Results for all 294 assembly seats will be announced on May 4. For now, the EC is reviewing multiple complaints, and repolling orders are expected by late evening.

WB Phase 2: Over 61% turnout till 1 pm as TMC faces ‘litmus test’ in bastions

Polling is currently underway for 142 seats across South Bengal and Kolkata, with the Trinamool Congress defending its traditional strongholds against a surging BJP.

Kolkata: Long queues were visible outside polling booths across South Bengal on Wednesday morning as West Bengal recorded a voter turnout of 61.11 per cent till 1 pm in the second phase of the 2026 Assembly Elections.

According to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the polling process has remained largely brisk despite the rising afternoon heat. Hooghly district is currently leading the charts with a 64.57 per cent turnout, while Howrah followed closely at 60.68 per cent. In the state capital, Kolkata North saw 60.18 per cent polling, while Kolkata South registered a slightly lower 57.73 per cent turnout by early afternoon.

High stakes in South Bengal

This phase is being widely described by political analysts as the "litmus test" for the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Of the 142 seats up for grabs today, the Mamata Banerjee-led party had secured a staggering 123 seats during the 2021 assembly polls.

The belt currently voting includes the party’s most reliable fortresses in South Bengal and the urban heart of Kolkata. For the TMC, maintaining its dominance here is essential for securing a fourth consecutive term. Conversely, the BJP is putting up a spirited challenge, hoping to capitalize on anti-incumbency and make significant inroads into the urban "bhadralok" vote and the influential Matua community pockets in Nadia.

Heavy polling in districts

Ground reports suggest a steady flow of voters since 7 am. In Nadia, which recorded 61.41 per cent polling till 1 pm, rural voters turned out in large numbers to beat the midday sun.

The ECI has deployed a massive security apparatus to ensure a peaceful process. Over 41,001 polling stations have been set up for this phase, which caters to an electorate of 3.21 crore. Notably, more than 8,000 booths are being managed entirely by women, a move aimed at encouraging female participation in what has historically been a high-turnout state.

Battle for the ‘Big Five’

While the numbers are impressive across the board, the spotlight remains fixed on the "Big Five" urban contests. Bhabanipur, the Chief Minister’s own backyard, remains the most watched seat. However, Tollyganj—the hub of the Bengali film industry—has also emerged as a high-profile battleground with several celebrity candidates in the fray.

The BJP’s strategy in this phase has focused heavily on highlighting issues of urban infrastructure and "syndicate culture," while the TMC has doubled down on its welfare schemes, particularly targeting women voters who have been a cornerstone of their electoral success.

Logistics and candidate profile

A total of 1,448 candidates are testing their luck today, including 220 women. Local authorities in Kolkata confirmed that while there were minor reports of technical glitches with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in a few pockets of Howrah and Kolkata South, these were swiftly addressed by booth officials to prevent any significant delays.

Looking ahead to May 4

As the day progresses, the focus will shift to the final turnout figures, which often cross the 80 per cent mark in West Bengal. In the 2021 edition, this specific belt saw intense polarization, and the current momentum suggests that the 2026 battle is being fought with equal, if not greater, intensity.

The fate of these 142 seats will be sealed in the ballot boxes by early evening, with the final counting of votes scheduled for May 4. For now, all eyes remain on the remaining hours of polling as the state decides whether the TMC’s "South Bengal fortress" remains intact or if the BJP has finally breached the wall.

Modi Cites ‘Fearless Voting’ as Bengal Sees Strong Turnout

PM Narendra Modi links high West Bengal voter turnout to fearless participation, says polls reflect public mood against ruling TMC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the ongoing polling in West Bengal is being conducted in a “fearless atmosphere,” pointing to the steady voter turnout in the second phase of Assembly elections as a sign of public confidence and democratic strength.

Addressing a public gathering in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, shortly after inaugurating the Ganga Expressway, Modi claimed that such an environment was “unimaginable” in the state in the past several decades. His remarks come amid continued political contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Strong turnout signals

Referring to early trends, Modi said reports indicated a significant voter turnout during the second phase of polling. “Just like in the first phase, people are coming out in large numbers,” he noted, adding that visuals of long queues at polling booths were circulating widely.

Initial data from the Election Commission of India (ECI) showed that voter participation had crossed 61% by early afternoon. Officials indicated that turnout figures were likely to rise further as polling continued through the day.

District-wise trends

Among districts, Hooghly recorded the highest turnout at over 64% by 1:00 pm, according to ECI figures. Howrah and Kolkata North followed with over 60% participation, while Nadia also reported steady polling activity.

Kolkata South, however, lagged slightly behind other constituencies, registering under 58% turnout at the same time. Election officials attributed the variations to urban voting patterns and local factors, though no major disruptions were reported.

‘Fearless participation’

In his speech, Modi emphasised that voters were exercising their franchise without fear. “People are casting their votes freely. This reflects the strength of our Constitution and the deepening of democracy,” he said.

He suggested that the high turnout indicated a desire for political change in the state. While not naming the ruling party directly in this context, Modi implied that voters were seeking an alternative to the current administration.

Political stakes high

Both the BJP and the TMC have expressed confidence that higher voter participation will favour them. Party leaders on both sides have been closely tracking turnout trends, especially in key constituencies considered electorally significant.

Political observers note that turnout in West Bengal has historically been high, but narratives around voter enthusiasm and freedom often become central talking points during tightly contested elections.

Gratitude to voters

Modi also thanked voters in the state, calling them “vigilant about their rights.” He said their participation reflects awareness and engagement in the democratic process.

“There are still several hours left before voting ends,” he added, urging more people to step out and vote.

Looking ahead

With multiple phases still underway, attention is likely to remain on turnout figures and ground reports from remaining constituencies. Election results are scheduled to be announced on May 4.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the outcome would “strengthen the resolve for a developed India,” framing the state elections within a broader national vision.

As polling continues, officials maintain that arrangements remain in place to ensure smooth and peaceful voting. The narrative around “fearless voting” in West Bengal is expected to remain a key theme in political messaging through the remainder of the election cycle.