Elections – Shankar Ghosh voices confidence as Bengal voting stays largely peaceful
Elections – Voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections progressed largely without major disruptions on Thursday, with candidates and officials urging citizens to participate responsibly. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominee Shankar Ghosh, contesting from the Siliguri Assembly constituency, cast his vote and expressed optimism about his party’s prospects in the state.
Candidate appeals for calm and participation
After voting, Ghosh spoke about the importance of maintaining order during the electoral process. He noted that polling had been smooth in his area and stressed the need for voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or disturbance. He also expressed confidence that the BJP would secure enough seats to form the next government in West Bengal.
Ghosh, who is the sitting MLA from Siliguri, is facing a multi-cornered contest. His main rivals include Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Goutam Deb, CPI(M) leader Saradindu Chakraborty, and Congress nominee Alok Dhara. The constituency is witnessing a competitive race, reflecting the broader political intensity across the state.
Minor tensions reported at polling stations
Despite an overall peaceful environment, isolated incidents were reported. At a polling booth located in Jagadish Chandra Vidyapith, supporters of Ghosh and TMC candidate Goutam Deb engaged in a verbal dispute. Security personnel stationed at the site intervened promptly, ensuring that the situation did not escalate further. The crowd was dispersed, and voting continued without interruption.
Authorities have maintained a strong presence across polling locations to prevent any disturbances. The quick response by security forces has been seen as a key factor in keeping the electoral process on track.
Clashes in Murshidabad raise concerns
In Murshidabad district, tensions briefly escalated when workers associated with the Trinamool Congress reportedly clashed with police personnel. The situation unfolded following the arrival of Humayun Kabir, founder of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AUJP). Slogans raised by party supporters led to an argument with police, resulting in a brief confrontation.
To bring the situation under control, security forces were deployed in greater numbers. Officials confirmed that mild force, including a limited lathi charge, was used to disperse parts of the crowd. However, police representatives clarified that the situation remained under control and did not spiral into a major law and order issue.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Majid Khan stated that the overall environment remained peaceful and that there were no serious incidents reported from the district.
Leaders call for peaceful elections
Humayun Kabir also addressed the situation, urging his supporters to remain calm and avoid any confrontation. He emphasized that his intention was to ensure a fair and peaceful voting process, adding that elections should be conducted without intimidation or conflict. His appeal echoed similar messages from other political leaders across parties, all calling for restraint and cooperation.
Multi-phase election across the state
West Bengal is conducting its Assembly elections in two phases for all 294 seats. The first phase covers 152 constituencies, while the second phase is scheduled to take place on April 29. According to data released by the Election Commission of India, 1,478 candidates are contesting in the first phase alone.
Vote counting is set for May 4, when the final outcome will determine the political direction of the state for the next term.
High-stakes contest between major parties
The election has drawn significant attention due to the intense rivalry between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is seeking a fourth consecutive term in office. On the other hand, the BJP is aiming to build on its previous performance, where it emerged as a strong opposition force by winning 77 seats.
With both parties campaigning aggressively and regional dynamics playing a crucial role, the outcome remains closely watched. The results are expected to reflect not only party strength but also shifting voter preferences across urban and rural constituencies.