Date: April 23, 2026

Location: Kumarganj, West Bengal

The Incident

In a disturbing turn of events during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, the BJP candidate for Kumarganj, Subhendu Sarkar, was allegedly chased and physically assaulted by a mob. Visuals from the ground show the candidate running for safety with his personal security detail as miscreants pursued them near a polling booth.

Key Highlights

• Booth Jamming Allegations: Subhendu Sarkar alleged that TMC workers were "booth jamming" and forcibly removing BJP polling agents from multiple stations (Booths 8–10).

• The Attack: The assault occurred when Sarkar arrived at Booth No. 24 to inspect these claims. He stated that he was targeted by a mob intent on creating an "atmosphere of fear."

• Security Lapse: The candidate expressed frustration that while Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) were present inside the booth premises, they were allegedly absent during the actual confrontation outside.

• Political Reaction: Sarkar claimed the attack was a sign of "desperation and fear" from the ruling party. Meanwhile, TMC has denied the allegations, often pointing to the "arbitrary" role of central forces.

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Election Context

The first phase of polling in Bengal has seen sporadic violence across several districts, including Murshidabad and Birbhum. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sought an immediate report on the Kumarganj incident.