Voting begins in Bengal Polls 2026 across 152 seats with tight security; Suvendu Adhikari calls for peaceful elections.
Voting for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 commenced on Thursday across 152 constituencies, with authorities deploying extensive security arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.
Polling began early in the morning, and long queues were visible outside multiple polling stations as voters turned out in significant numbers to cast their ballots.
Voting Across Key Districts
The first phase covers 152 seats spread across 16 districts, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Paschim Bardhaman, Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur.
These constituencies represent a diverse mix of border areas, tea garden belts, rural regions, tribal-dominated zones and urban pockets, making this phase electorally significant.
High Voter Turnout and Participation
According to the Election Commission of India, nearly 3.6 crore voters are eligible to participate in this phase. Around 44,000 polling stations have been set up to facilitate voting.
Early trends indicated enthusiastic participation, with women, youth and senior citizens turning up in large numbers. Election officials noted that polling began on schedule in most areas.
Robust Security Deployment
To ensure peaceful polling, authorities have deployed approximately 2,407 companies of central armed forces across sensitive and high-risk areas.
Additional measures include surveillance teams, live video monitoring, and the presence of special observers at critical polling booths. Quick response teams have also been positioned to address complaints or any untoward incidents swiftly.
Officials said the security arrangement aims to instill confidence among voters and prevent disruptions during the electoral process.
Suvendu Adhikari Calls for Peaceful Voting
Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, visited Nandigram early in the day and inspected several polling stations.
Interacting with polling agents, he emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and urged authorities to ensure a free and fair election.
He stated that the democratic process should be conducted without fear or interference, highlighting the need for strict adherence to election norms.
Large Number of Candidates in Fray
A total of 1,478 candidates are contesting in this phase, including prominent political figures, sitting ministers, former legislators, and first-time candidates.
Political parties are closely monitoring voter turnout, particularly in regions such as North Bengal, border districts, rural belts and minority-dominated constituencies.
Strategic Importance of First Phase
The first phase is being seen as crucial in shaping the overall trajectory of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.
Analysts suggest that voting patterns and turnout trends in this phase could influence campaign strategies and momentum for the remaining stages.
Administration Focused on Smooth Conduct
Authorities reiterated their commitment to conducting free, fair and peaceful elections, with strict monitoring in place throughout the polling process.
Voters have been encouraged to participate actively and exercise their democratic rights without hesitation.
High Stakes as Bengal Begins Multi-Phase Electoral Battle
As polling progresses across key constituencies, the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 sets the stage for a high-stakes political contest in the state.
With strong voter turnout, tight security, and close political scrutiny, the developments from this phase are expected to play a significant role in determining the course of the election in the days ahead.
Inputs & Images: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited By: Akshaya Polepalli
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