Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, exercised her right to vote on April 29, 2026, at a polling station located in Kolkata. Banerjee is contesting the Assembly elections as a candidate from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party in the Bhabanipur constituency. Her participation is significant as the second phase of the polls unfolds, which covers substantial areas known as TMC strongholds.

Allegations of Misconduct by Security Forces

Following her voting, Banerjee made serious allegations against the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). She claimed that the personnel have been engaging in violent behaviour against voters, including physical assaults and unlawful detentions. Banerjee stated, “They have not even spared women and children.” Her remarks indicated a strong discontent regarding the treatment voters have allegedly received during this electoral phase.

Banerjee’s assertions included claims that these actions amount to “contempt of court,” reflecting her view on the fairness of the electoral process. Her statements were directed towards both CRPF personnel and central observers, alleging that they have contributed to a hostile voting environment. She expressed confidence in her party’s victory, stating, “We will win, TMC is winning,” asserting that despite the alleged malpractice, the TMC would emerge triumphant.

This phase of the elections has gathered significant attention, with Banerjee’s comments drawing responses from various quarters regarding the overall integrity of the voting process in the state.

Key Electoral Context and Voter Demographics

The second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections encompasses 142 out of a total of 294 seats in the state. Approximately 3.21 crore voters are registered, comprising 1,64,35,627 men, 1,57,37,418 women, and 792 transgender individuals. A total of 1,448 candidates are contesting, including 220 women, across 41,001 polling stations, many of which are entirely managed by women.

The election phase is perceived as a crucial benchmark for the TMC, particularly as it seeks to hold on to its prominent positions in areas traditionally supportive of the party. The ‘Big Five’ urban constituencies, including Bhabanipur and Tollygunge, are under the spotlight. The latter is recognised as a prominent centre for the Bengali film industry, heightening the stakes for both parties.

In the previous elections held in 2021, the TMC gained significant victories, winning 123 of the 142 contested seats in this region. For the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), this electoral phase represents an opportunity to penetrate urban demographics, specifically targeting the “bhadralok” and Matua communities. Conversely, the TMC aims to maintain its influence and secure a fourth consecutive term for its Chief Minister.

Vote Counting Scheduled for May 4

The counting of votes from this phase is scheduled to take place on May 4, 2026. This process will ascertain which party can secure the majority and thus influence the future political landscape of West Bengal. As both parties prepare for this crucial phase, the results will be closely monitored by political analysts and citizens alike.

The environment surrounding the elections continues to evolve, with voter sentiments shaped by both the electoral process and the incidents reported regarding the authorities’ conduct. The outcomes of the elections in this phase could be a deciding factor in the trajectory of Mamata Banerjee’s political ambitions and the TMC’s standing in West Bengal.

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