Kolkata

Several prominent political leaders cast their votes on Thursday during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 and appealed for peaceful, free and fair polling.

Suvendu Adhikari Votes in Kanthi

Suvendu Adhikari cast his vote at a polling booth near his residence in Kanthi.

Speaking afterward, he thanked the Election Commission of India and central forces, expressing hope for peaceful voting. Adhikari is contesting from Nandigram and also challenging Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur in the second phase.

Dilip Ghosh Votes in Kharagpur

Dilip Ghosh cast his vote in Kharagpur Sadar and said polling was progressing peacefully.

Congress Candidate Mausam Noor Appeals for Free Voting

Mausam Benazir Noor, contesting from Malatipur, said she hoped voters would be able to exercise their democratic rights freely and peacefully.

TMC Leaders Vote, Call for Calm

Udayan Guha, candidate from Dinhata, said his party wanted peaceful elections and noted strong voter turnout since morning.

Pabitra Kar also cast his vote in Nandigram.

BJP’s Nisith Pramanik Sees Desire for Change

Nisith Pramanik, contesting from Mathabhanga, said people were voting enthusiastically and signalled support for political change in the state.

READ MORE: West Bengal Polls: In first phase, 152 seats outcome crucial for Mamata, BJP

Polling Update

By 11 am, more than 41 per cent of the 3.60 crore electorate had cast votes across 152 constituencies in 16 districts. The remaining seats will vote in the second phase on April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.