West Bengal recorded voter turnout above 92% during the first two phases of the 2026 Assembly elections [1].
The high participation underscores a fierce battle for power between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both parties are navigating a volatile political climate marked by allegations of financial corruption and disputes over voter eligibility.
Controversy has centered on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), which resulted in the omission of 9.1 million voter names [1]. Political leaders said this deletion of 9.1 million voters could significantly alter the final outcome of the race [1].
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (TMC) has intensified her attacks on the BJP's campaign strategies. On April 8, 2026, Banerjee filed her nomination from Bhabanipur while targeting the BJP's "Paribartan" pitch [2]. She also said that the BJP struck a deal worth Rs 1,000 crore to unseat the TMC from power [3].
Regarding a disputed video clip, Banerjee said, "the person seen in the clip had himself acknowledged its authenticity" [3].
The BJP has responded to these attacks by leaning into a campaign centered on Hindu identity. This strategy has led to a sharp ideological divide, with the BJP issuing retorts to Banerjee's criticisms by framing them as anti-Hindu [4].
Phase two of the polling concluded on April 29, 2026 [1]. The election continues to be defined by the tension between the TMC's governance record and the BJP's identity-driven mobilization.
“Voter turnout exceeded 92% in first two phases”
The scale of voter deletions via the SIR revision, combined with record-high turnout, suggests a highly polarized electorate. While the BJP is leveraging identity politics to gain ground, the TMC is focusing on allegations of external interference and financial manipulation to maintain its mandate. The final result will likely hinge on whether the omitted voters represent a specific demographic shift that favors one party over the other.
