Voting for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections witnessed high political drama on Wednesday as actor-turned-politician Mithun Chakraborty cast his vote and predicted a massive turnout, while several BJP candidates raised concerns over alleged poll violence and EVM glitches in different constituencies.
Mithun Predicts Massive Voter Turnout
After casting his vote, BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty expressed confidence that voter participation in the second phase could touch an impressive 90 per cent.
Speaking to reporters outside the polling booth, Mithun said that the large number of voters arriving early in the day was a strong indicator of heightened public enthusiasm. He suggested that if turnout reached that level, it would send a strong political message.
BJP Candidates Raise Alarm Over EVM Problems
As polling progressed, several BJP candidates reported concerns over the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines at polling stations.
BJP candidate Ratna Debnath claimed there appeared to be delays in the EVM response during voting and alleged technical disturbances in the machine. The complaint added to growing political tension during the ongoing voting process.
At the same time, BJP candidate Soma Thakur urged voters to come out in large numbers and participate in the democratic process despite the complaints.
Former Rajya Sabha MP and BJP candidate Roopa Ganguly also cast her vote during the day and appealed to voters to carry all required election documents to avoid inconvenience at polling booths.
Violence Allegations Surface In Chapra
Tensions escalated further after BJP candidate Saikat Sarkar alleged that one of his party’s booth agents was attacked while on the way to a polling station in Chapra.
According to Sarkar, the worker was assaulted by an alleged supporter of the ruling Trinamool Congress and sustained serious injuries, requiring hospitalisation. The allegation has intensified the political war of words between the BJP and TMC during the election.
The ruling party has not yet responded to the claims.
Justice Battle Enters Poll Arena
Adding an emotional layer to the political contest, the mother of the victim in the R.G. Kar rape and murder case has entered the election fray on a BJP ticket.
Seeking justice for her daughter, she said her entry into politics is driven by the demand for accountability and justice. Her candidacy has become a major talking point in the ongoing elections.
Polling Underway Across 142 Seats
The second phase of polling began at 7 am across 142 constituencies spread over six districts, including Kolkata.
The phase is considered politically significant as both the BJP and Trinamool Congress are locked in an intense contest for control of the state. Security has been tightened in sensitive areas to prevent unrest and ensure smooth polling.
With reports of high turnout, complaints over EVMs, and allegations of violence surfacing simultaneously, the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections has emerged as one of the most closely watched electoral battles in the country.
