Kolkata
oi-Swastika Sruti
The second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections began on a tense note, with the first reports of alleged violence coming from Chapra in Nadia district. According to local accounts, the incident took place in the early hours of polling, raising concerns about voter safety and the smooth conduct of elections.
During the second phase of West Bengal Assembly elections in Chapra, Nadia district, BJP candidate Saikat Sarkar alleged his polling agent was seriously injured in an attack near Booth No. 53, with reports also indicating an ISF agent was targeted amid rising political tensions.
The situation reportedly unfolded around 6 am, just as polling preparations were getting underway and party workers were heading to their assigned booths.
BJP Candidate Alleges Attack on Polling Agent
BJP candidate from the Chapra Assembly constituency, Saikat Sarkar, claimed that one of his party’s booth agents was attacked while on the way to a polling station.
He alleged that the worker was assaulted by individuals linked to the rival party. According to Sarkar, the attackers used sticks, rods, and even the edge of a gun during the assault, leaving the agent seriously injured.
Nadia, West Bengal: BJP candidate from the Chapra Assembly constituency Saikat Sarkar says, “At 6 am our booth agent was going to the booth. There were other members of the party. TMCs candidates goon Mofidul has beaten him (polling agent) badly with a edge of the gun, a stick,… pic.twitter.com/YQcJaGGHcx
— IANS (@ians_india) April 29, 2026“>
The injured polling agent was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The BJP has strongly condemned the incident, calling it an attempt to intimidate its workers and disrupt the voting process.
Incident Reported at Booth No. 53
Party sources stated that the alleged attack was connected to activities around Booth No. 53 in Chapra. The BJP has blamed workers associated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the violence.
However, as is common in politically sensitive situations, such claims often lead to counter-allegations, and officials are expected to verify the details independently.
ISF Agent Also Reportedly Targeted
In a separate development from the same district, there were allegations of an attack on a polling agent linked to the Indian Secular Front (ISF). This suggests that tensions during polling may not be limited to just two parties but involve multiple political players in the region.
These reports have added to concerns about law and order during the elections, especially in areas known for intense political competition.
Concerns Over Free and Fair Voting
Incidents like these raise serious questions about the ability to conduct peaceful and fair elections. Voters and political observers have often stressed the need for strong security arrangements to prevent violence and ensure that people can cast their votes without fear.
The Election Commission is expected to take note of such complaints and, if necessary, deploy additional forces or take strict action against those found responsible.
Political Heat Rises in Phase 2
West Bengal elections are known for high political intensity, and Phase 2 appears to be no exception. With multiple parties fighting for dominance, clashes and allegations tend to surface, especially in closely contested constituencies.
As polling continues, all eyes will be on how authorities handle such incidents and whether the voting process remains peaceful in the remaining hours.
The reported attack in Chapra highlights the challenges that come with conducting elections in politically charged environments. While allegations have been made, a clear picture will emerge only after official investigations.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring voter safety and maintaining the integrity of the democratic process as West Bengal moves through another crucial phase of its Assembly elections.
