Naoda
Violence broke out on Thursday between supporters of Aam Janata Unnayan Party and the ruling All India Trinamool Congress in Naoda during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.
Clashes in Shibnagar Village
The unrest was reported from Shibnagar, where rival groups allegedly hurled stones and bricks at each other, creating a tense law-and-order situation. Several incidents of vehicle vandalism were also reported.
Police and Central Forces Intervene
Officials said police and central security forces used baton charge (lathi charge) to disperse the mob and restore order. Additional security personnel were deployed around the polling station and nearby areas.
The Election Commission of India has sought a report on the incident.
Political Tension Earlier in the Day
The tension reportedly began after Humayun Kabir visited a polling booth after casting his vote. He was met by protests from TMC supporters who raised slogans and surrounded his vehicle, calling him a “BJP agent.”
Kabir later staged a sit-in protest, accusing the ruling party of intimidating voters and engaging in electoral malpractices. He also alleged that TMC had bribed several of his party candidates to stay out of the contest.
READ MORE: West Bengal Polls: In first phase, 152 seats outcome crucial for Mamata, BJP
Polling Continues
Despite sporadic incidents in some pockets, voting in the first phase across 152 constituencies was largely peaceful. The second phase of polling will be held on April 29, with counting on May 4.
