West Bengal Election 2021 Live Update: Mamata Wins Bengal, Loses Nandigram, Clean Sweep for TMC

KOLKATA: Khela Over: The Final Result of the West Bengal 2021 Assembly Elections after a Terrific Fight Between the Ruling TMC and the BJP are as follows:

TMC-  213

BJP- 77

CPM+ - 1

Others- 1

9:00 PM

Mamata Banerjee to meet the governor of West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar tomorrow after 7 PM.

Derek O'Brien, Firhad Hakim and Kalyan Banerjee of the TMC are meeting the CEO demanding a recount in Nandigram.

8:30 PM

BJP's Suvendu Adhikari claims victory after sharing the tabulation sheet from the final round of counting in Nandigram. 

Governor of West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar took to Twitter to express his concerns over the violence erupting in Bengal post the declaration of election results. 

7:45 PM

"We humbly accept mandate and will play role of constructive opposition. Result is not as per our expectations; We couldn't achieve our target, but still we have improved our position," says BJP Bengal chief Dilip Ghosh. 

PM Modi congratulates Mamata Banerjee for her party's victory on Twitter. 

I would like to thank my sisters and brothers of West Bengal who have blessed our party. From a negligible presence earlier, BJP's presence has significantly increased. BJP will keep serving the people. I applaud each and every Karyakarta for their spirited effort in the polls, said Modi on Twitter. 

7:20 PM

As per the latest data, BJP's Suvendu Banerjee appears to have won the Nandigram seat but TMC Tweets that the counting is not over yet. 

I accept the verdict but I will move the Court because I have information that after the declaration of results there were some manipulations done and I will reveal those, said Mamata Banerjee. 

6:45 PM

"As West Bengal poll results are being declared, TMC goons are attacking BJP offices & workers. BJP office in Arambagh was set on fire by TMC goons. TMC workers attacked BJP workers in Belaghat, similar incidents happened in Shivpur, Durgapur, Uttar Bardhaman," said Sambit Patra, BJP spokesperson.

We had all the central agencies and Election Commission against us, despite that we have managed to win, said Mamata Banerjee. 

Mamata Banerjee announced free vaccines for all and asked the centre to extend this facility to all in the country. 

Bengal saved the country, said Mamata Banerjee adding that this landslide victory should silence all critics.

"Don't worry about Nandigram, I struggled for Nandigram because I fought a movement. It's ok. Let the Nandigram people give whatever verdict they want, I accept that. I don't mind. We won more than 221 seats & BJP has lost the election," said Mamata Banerjee adding that the election was won against money power, muscle power, mafia power. 

6:00 PM

BJP addressed the media in Kolkata after the poll defeat. BJP also congratulated Mamata Banerjee for her victory in West Bengal. 

Although the BJP failed to form the government, they will be a responsible opposition, said BJP.

We will introspect why people did not accept us the way we had expected said the BJP. 

BJP office at Arambagh torched and BJP workers attacked. The saffron party appealed for violent free victory celebrations. 

5:15 PM

Mamata Banerjee is expected to address the media virtually. She also addressed a gathering near her house.

'This is a victory for Bengal,' said CM Mamata Banerjee. 

In a short speech, she urged her supporters to not take out victory rallies and adhere to COVID-19 protocols. Dealing with the pandemic is the need of the hour, said mamata Banerjee. Read more

4:40 PM

Mamata Banerjee wins the Nandigram seat by defeating BJP's Suvendu Adhikari by a margin of 1,200 votes.

EC calls for action against TMC supporters who were involved in the celebration congregations openly flouting COVID-19 protocols post-TMC's landslide victory.

Nirmal Maji of Trinamool wins from Uluberia North constituency. 

4:00 PM

 "The TMC won because of Mamata Banerjee. It seems people have chosen Didi. We will introspect what went wrong, whether it was organisational issues, lack of face, insider- outsider debate. We will see what went wrong," said BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya.

In a tight contest for the Nandigram seat, BJP's Suvendu Adhikari is leading by only 6 votes over CM Mamata Banerjee. The last round of counting for this Vidhan sabha seat is underway. 

TMC candidate Becharam Manna has won the Singur seat by more than 25,500 votes defeating BJP's Rabindranath Bhattacharjee. 

TMC candidate Moloy Ghatak wins Asansol North. 

Manoj Tiwary, a former cricketer from the TMC wins from Shibpur. 

3:00 PM

EC tells chief secretaries to file an FIR against people involved in celebrational congregation and suspend the police in charge of the areas where the celebrations are taking place.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Delhi CM Aravind Kejriwal, National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah, and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti congratulate Mamata Banerjee for TMC's landslide victory. 

After 15 rounds of vote counting, Mamata Banerjee leads by nearly 8000 votes. 

2:15 PM

Hundreds of TMC supporters gather outside the BJP office in Kolkata's Hastings area as TMC crosses the 200 seat mark. 

Footballer turned politician Bidesh Bose of Trinamool leading with a huge margin from Uluberia East.

TMC's Sujit Bose leads from Bidhannagar with over 8000 vote margin. 

2:10 PM

Mamata Banerjee leads from the Nandigram seat, overtaking BJP's Suvendu Adhikari. 

2:00 PM

TMC's Partha Bhownik leads by a considerable margin in Naihati.

BJP's Shankar Ghosh leads by a huge margin in Siliguri.

Firhad Hakim, TMC stated, "I was always telling the press that Mamata Banerjee will be CM for the 3rd time. BJP tried their best to crack but they didn't succeed. The Left has now vanished from West Bengal due to their wrong policy of taking a communal force against a communal force."

Partha Chatterjee, TMC general secretary said that the people of Bengal have given a befitting reply to the BJP for its repeated attacks on Mamata Banerjee. 

1:40 PM

TMC ministers Aroop Biswas and Tapas Roy are leading from Tollygunge and Baranagar respectively. 

 Trinamool's Manoj Tewari is leading from Shibpur.

 Ratna Chatterjee of Trinamool leads Behala East.

In Kamarhati TMC's Madan Mitra leads.

TMC's Javed Khan leads by 51,000 votes in Kasba. 

TMC is far ahead in Sujapur and Malda.

1:00 PM

Mamata Banerjee overtaken by Suvendu Adhikari again as he leads in Nandigram. 

12:45 PM

Mamata Banerjee overtakes Suvendu Adhikari with a lead of about 1,500 votes in Nandigram. 

12:00 PM

Javed Khan and Subrata Mukherjee of Trinamool are leading in Kasba and Ballygunge respectively. 

TMC's Shobhandeb Chatterjee leads in Bhawanipore.

 BJP's Mina Devi Purohit leads Jorasanko. 

Firhad Hakim of Trinamool leads in Port.

Rezaul Karim of Trinamool leads in Bhangar.

In Balurghat Ashok Lahiri of BJP leads. 

11:40 AM

Mamata Banerjee, who still trail at Nandigram has reduced her margin to around 4,000 votes. 

The fourth round of counting at Nandigram has begun. 

Kajal Singha of TMC who passed away due to COVID-19 leads in Khardah.

11:15 AM

Suvendu Adhikari by the end of the third-round lead by 8,000 plus votes in the Nandigram constituency while CM Mamata Banerjee trails. 

BJP's Subrata Saha leads in Rashbehari. 

"We will cross the magic figure by evening. I am sure that we will form the next government in Bengal," said BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya. He also said that the early trends are not the real indicator of Bengal poll outcome. 

10:45 AM

"Too early to say anything because there are so many rounds. Situation will be clear only by evening. We had started from 3 and were challenged that we won't get even 100, we have crossed that mark. We will cross the magic number too," stated Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP.

10:30 AM

 Aroop Biswas of the TMC leading from Tollygunge, BJP's Babul Supriyo trailing.

10:15 AM

Suvendu Adhikari leads Nandigram by 8,206 votes.

BJP leaders Swapan Dasgupta and Babul Supriyo trail.

According to intel from the ECCI, TMC enjoys a larger vote share as compared to BJP. TMC lead with a high margin in the seats where they are ahead whereas BJP in the seats BJP lead with a narrow margin in the seats they are ahead. 

9:50 AM

CM Mamata Banerjee still trails by 3,400 votes after the second round of voting to former ministerial colleague Suvendu Adhikari.

9:30 AM

Counting underway in 108 counting centres spread across 23 districts of the state.

Mamata Banerjee trailing by 1,497 votes in the first round of counting from Nandigram. 

4 sitting ministers in Bengal including CM Mamata Banerjee trailing

Babul Suprio in the lead in Tollygunge. 

Phase 3

The third phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election culminates today with a 77.68 per cent of voter turnout.

It was a three-cornered battle for 31 Assembly seats across three districts of South 24 Parganas, Howrah, and Hooghly. While BJP is seeking to take over Trinamool Congress TMC, and Left Front-ISF-Congress alliance is hoping to make a mark in areas, where identity politics has gained ground.

Elections was held amid tight security. All 31 constituencies were declared as ''sensitive'' by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Section 144 of CrPC was imposed in all the 16 assembly constituencies in South 24 Parganas (Part II), seven seats in Howrah (Part I) and eight seats in Hooghly (Part 1).

Total 205 candidates, including 13 women, have been fielded in the third phase of Bengal polls.

Sporadic violence erupted in various parts of the districts, the Election Commission suspended a sector officer after three EVMs and four VVPAT machines were found at TMC leader Goutam Ghosh's residence. Apart from this several officers were suspended for gross negligence and callous activity in performing duty. Meanwhile, the TMC has accused BJP workers of chasing and hurting party leader Sujata Mondal near a polling booth and urged the EC to take cognisance of the issue.

6:15 PM: TMC's Derek O Brien writes to Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal regarding 'Gruesome sexual assault on minor girl by CRPF jawan in AC 198-Tarakeshwar, Hooghly'

"A CRPF jawan caught molesting a child (minor girl) in Tarakeswar Hooghly. He was beaten up by locals. Rescued by cops," O'Brien.  

6.00 PM: As per the latest data released by the Election Commission, West Bengal recorded a voting percentage of 77.68 percent in the third phase of Assembly polls.

5:16 PM: Many voters at a polling booth in Diamond Harbour constituency claimed that TMC workers didn't let them vote. "Officials came here but didn't facilitate voting for us," said a woman, earlier today. (Courtesy: ANI)

4:15 PM: As per the latest data released by the Election Commission, West Bengal recorded a voting percentage of 68.04 percent till 4 pm in the third phase of Assembly polls.

4:12 PM: While accusing TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee of threatening people of West Bengal, PM Modi at an election rally in Howrah said, "The truth of whatever Didi did to West Bengal has come out. This is why Didi is threatening people of West Bengal. Didi says 'Amra dekhe nebo', BJP says 'Amra seva korbo'. We are humbly asking for a chance to serve people."

He further stated that Banerjee's party is not getting any polling agents at polling booths.

"The situation is such that Didi's party is not getting polling agents at polling booths. Few days back, didi was accusing EC & security forces of stopping her polling agent. Now she has accepted that her polling agents are revolting against her," said PM Modi (Courtesy: ANI)

3:43 PM: Media persons and volunteers alleges that security personnel have pushed them out from a polling booth in Tarakeswar, Hooghly.

BJP leader Swapan Das Gupta said, "There is an accusation that a senior police officer is cutting TMC voters here. They've hit many people & abused women with an idea to ensure that people must leave. I find it objectionable that there are West Bengal Police personnel without any name tags." (Courtesy: ANI)

3:11 PM: On the recovery of EVMs & VVPAT at TMC leader's house, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury alleged that the administration conducts polls in favour of the ruling party. "In West Bengal, admn conducts polls in favour of ruling party. That's why, in last Panchayat polls in West Bengal, 34% of voters couldn't vote. It resulted in an unopposed victory of ruling party on 20,000 seats": AR Chowdhary (Courtesy: ANI)

3:00 PM: As per the latest data released by the Election Commission, West Bengal recorded a voting percentage of 53.89 percent till 3 pm in the third phase of Assembly polls.

2:15 PM: PM Modi accuses West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee of asking all Muslims to vote en bloc for her. "It shows that the Muslim vote bank is slipping out of her hands. Had we said the same thing that all Hindus should unite, everybody would have criticised us. The EC would have sent us notices. We would have been censored," he said.

Meanwhile, Banerjee accused the BJP of using unfair means during the assembly elections. She further alleged that her party workers are being attacked and further alleged that she has received at least 100 complaints of assault and violence since morning, and the Election Commission has been duly informed but to no avail.

While alleging the BJP of conspiring against her party she claimed that "Security forces have been asked not to resist booth capturing."

2:00 PM: As per the latest data released by the Election Commission, West Bengal recorded a voting percentage of 53.89 percent till 1 pm in the third phase of Assembly polls.

1:20 PM: TMC writes to EC on alleged attack on TMC's Sujata Mondal . 'In view of circumstances, you (EC) are called upon to immediately intervene & apprehend the goons of BJP, ensure that no corrupt practices take place in constituency'.

BJP workers chased TMC's Arambagh candidate Sujata Mondal, hit her on head near polling booth: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

You are called upon to apprehend the goons of BJP, ensure that no corrupt practices take place, ensure the safety of our workers/members, ensure that polls are conducted freely & fairly: TMC's Derek O'Brien writes to EC. (Courtesy: ANI)

1:15 PM: PM Modi alleges that Mamata Banerjee started to threaten the people that if she doesn't win the election all benefits will be stopped. "Didi has started issuing threats to people these days that is she doesn't win, all benefits will stop!," he said.

1:10 PM: The TMC alleged that central forces in Goghat have been threatened for not voting for the BJP. "Voters in the area have complained that they have been threatened and even beaten for not voting for the BJP. It further urged the EC to take strict action against such 'stifling of democracy in India'.

1:04 PM: TMC alleges that its candidate from Arambagh, Sujata Mandal has been attacked as voting was underway. Sharing a video of Mandal running for safety, the TMC tweeted, "Petrifying visuals of BJP goons attacking TMC candidate Sujata Mandal, openly abusing her & threatening her with rods & sickle. If they have the guts to do this to a female candidate, imagine what they can do to your daughters. This is their 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'."

1:05 PM: PM Modi hitting out at TMC chief Mamata Banerjee stated, Didi has been asking "Is BJP God that it already knows it is winning polls?" I want to say to her that we're normal people engaged in the service of public. I want to tell the people that I'll return your love with interest in the form of development."

01:00 PM: West Bengal records 35.23 per cent voters turnout.

12:55 PM: Didi, the day you did 'khela' at the polling booth in Nandigram, the same day the country knew that you have lost the elections: PM Modi addresses a public rally in Cooch Behar, West Bengal.

12:30 PM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses rally at Coochbehar. 

12:09 PM: Asst Sector Officers of Sec 17, 177-Uluberia North Assembly Constituency, Tapan Kumar Sarkar, Sanjib Majumdar, Mithun Chakraborty for gross violation of ECI guidelines by taking reserve EVMs to their relatives' house on April 5: DM & District Election Office, Howrah.

SI Sujit Chakraborty of CID deputed for law and order duty has been suspended for gross negligence and callous activity in performing duty as sector officer under Sector no 17, Rajapur PS: SP Howrah (Rural) District

Three Home Guards of Howrah (rural) District temporarily demobilised for their failure in performing their duty during assembly elections: SP Howrah (Rural) District.

 12:01 PM: Clash erupts between TMC and BJP supporters in Arambag, as voting in assembly elections is underway. TMC candidate from Arambagh, Sujata Mondol alleged, "In Arandi-I area here, we've minority, SC voters who love Mamata Banerjee. Goons of BJP threatened & tortured women voters last night." (Courtesy: ANI)

12:00 PM: West Bengal records 34.72 per cent turnout.

A differently abled voter is arriving the Polling Station No. 171 of 128 -Basanti Assembly Constituency of South 24 Parganas District.

 BJP accuses TMC of barring people from casting votes in South 24 Parganas.

Santanu Sen, SDPO, Diamond Harbour, South 24 Paraganas informed that the State Police is not influencing Quick Response Teams, they are moving independently. Elections are being conducted in a free and fair manner. (Courtesy: ANI)

11:00 AM: West Bengal records 14.62 per cent turnout.

Electors comes out with happy faces after casting their vote at 128 Basanti Assembly Constituency of South 24 Parganas District.

10:48 AM: Five people arrested after officers under Siliguri Metropolitan Police (SMP) recovered two crude bombs from a grocery shop at Ashighar, last night. (Courtesy: ANI)

10:47 AM: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleges that Central Forces are being misused at several places to openly intimidate TMC voters and influence many to vote in favour of one party.

"The blatant misuse of Central forces continues unabated. Despite us repeatedly raising this issue, ECI continues to be a mute spectator while men in uniform are being misused at several places to openly intimidate TMC voters & influence many to vote in favour of one party," Banerjee said. 

An ITBP jawan carries a senior citizen to help her reach a polling booth in Kulpi, Sundarban to cast her vote for the third phase of West Bengal Elections 2021.

 10:39 AM: Speaking on the recovery of EVMs and VVPATs from the residence of TMC leader Gautam Ghosh, Union minister Prakash Javadekar stated, "Today is 3rd phase of polling in WB & yet another TMC attempt has been exposed. Last night in Uluberia, from the residence of TMC leader Gautam Ghosh, 4 VVPATs & EVMs were found & confiscated. Machines were brought by car which was on election duty."

"It's more serious because today is voting. EC has taken action not to use those machines & suspend the officer. But this may be a bigger thing than it seems. So we demand that there should be full inquiry of these VVPATs & EVMs found in his house," Javadekar added.

10:30 AM: Situation is fine at many places but not okay where we're strong. At booth 45, people voted for TMC but it's going to BJP. In Arandi-ii, our workers were beaten. Central Forces are also not neutral.They're telling people to vote for BJP, alleged Sujata Mondal, TMC candidate from Arambagh.

10:00 AM: West Bengal records 14.62 per cent turnout. 

An elderly voter is being assisted to wear mask to maintain Covid-19 protocol at Polling Station No. 17 (Kalikapur Adaitya F. P School) of 136 Joynagar (SC) Assembly Constituency of South 24 Parganas District.

Thermal checking is being done at 111 (Purba Tapna Primary School) under 178 Uluberia Dakshin, Assembly Constituency of Howrah District.

9:31 AM: BJP alleges TMC for blocking voters at several places in West Bengal. Meanwhile, TMC MLA Saokat Molla stated, "All allegations (by BJP) are false. When a party weakens, it gives baseless statements. It is they who facilitate hooliganism, they bring money & people from outside. Whatever they say is a lie. Voters in South 24 Parganas is with TMC & Mamata Banerjee." He further alleged that he had received information that ISF workers were hurling bombs at a polling booth in Satsa. "I have informed the Police & complained to the Election Commission. I will go to that polling booth.," he added. 

9:30 AM: Voter turnout in West Bengal Assembly Elections till 9:30 AM is 14.00 per cent. 

9:11 AM: BJP candidate from Diamond Harbour, South 24 Parganas Dipak Haldar alleges that TMC 'goons' are not allowing people to cast their votes at booth no. 180, 143 Dagira Baduldanga. "I have complained to the Election Commission officials," added Haldar.

BJP candidate from Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas, Dipak Haldar casts his vote at Abdalpur F P Primary School in the district for the third phase of West Bengal Polls.

9:00 AM: Total turn out of voter at 9:00 AM is 1.01 per cent. 

8:56 AM: Sector Officer suspended after EVM, VVPATS found at residence of TMC leader in Uluberia, West Bengal . Sector Officer has been suspended. It was a reserved EVM that has been removed from the election process. Severe action will be taken against all involved: Election Commission of India (ECI). (Courtesy:ANI)

Tapan Sarkar, sector officer of Sector 17 in AC 177 Uluberia Uttar at Howrah district, went with Reserve EVM and slept at a relative's house. This is a gross violation of EC's instructions for which he has been suspended and charges will be framed for major punishment: EC

EC stated that the Sector Police attached to Sector Officer has also been directed to be suspended. The said EVM and VVPAT have been taken out of the stock and shall not be used in the polls.

April 6: TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee urged people to vote in large numbers. 

April 1: The high octane battle on the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections culminates on a bitter note, with both the TMC and BJP accusing each other of practising unfair means. Various instances of violence have been reported from several districts. A BJP worker was found hanging at his home in Nandigram in West Bengal's Purba Medinipur district, while a BJP leader's car was vandalised. However, the political parties have resorted to blame games. The BJP holds the TMC responsible for all the incidents, while TMC denied the allegations saying the saffron party is politicising the matter.

Nandigram remained the centre of controversy, as two-time Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee locked horns with once her closest aide and confidant and now her closest rival and foe, Suvendu Adhikari, the sitting MLA of Nandigram contesting on a BJP ticket.

The fight was amplified with the war of words between Banerjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is campaigning in the state. Banerjee accused the BJP of bringing 'outsiders' to create chaos in the state. Hitting back at Banerjee, Modi said that she favours infiltrators whereas calls the children of the country 'outsiders'.

Adhikari, a former TMC leader and West Bengal's former Transport Minister had joined the BJP in 2020 and became the arch rival and strongest opponent of Mamata Banerjee. Adhikari was a Member of Parliament from 2009-2016 from Tamluk Constituency but resigned mid-term.

Nandigram witnessed a seven cornered battle this time. The other candidates contesting from Nandigram are SK Saddam Hussain (Independent), Swapan Parua (Independent), Dipak Kumar Gayen (Independent), and Manoj Kumar Das (Socialist unity Centre of India {Communist}. Minakshi Mukherjee, of CPI (M), another strong candidate, is also contesting from the Nandigram seat.

A total of 171 candidates in 30 constituencies contested for the 249-member West Bengal Legislative Assembly in the second phase.

Of the 171 candidates in the fray, 152 are male candidates and 19 are female candidates. The total number of voters in Phase II are 75, 95 549.

Entire voting was done in favour of 'Poriborton'. BJP will win 30 out of 30 seats in the first phase of the election said Suvendu Adhikari. Meanwhile, Banerjee said that 90% of the votes will be in favour of the TMC.

Selfie Zone for Electors in KGP Municipality Booth under 224 Kharagpur Sadar Assembly Constituency of Paschim Medinipur District.

 6:00 PM: Over 80 per cent voter turnout recorded in the second phase of West Bengal Elections. 

5:47 PM: Suvendu Adhikari accuses Mamata of doing drama, said voting at a booth stalled for two hours. (Courtesy: ANI)

Meanwhile, addressing to the EC, said that  90 per cent of vote will be in favour of TMC. 

We have already lodged 63 complaints with Election Commission. I am not worried about Nandigram, but I am worried about democracy. I will win Nandigram with the blessings of 'Maa Maati Manush': West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee. 

Mamata Banerjee: Why Narendra Modi comes to Bengal on every polling day? Why will he campaign on election day? If we can't campaign in election areas then why he addresses the people with all facilities including Doordarshan on polling day? Isn't it a violation of model code of conduct? (Courtesy: ANI)

5:30 PM: 80.43 per cent of voters turnout in West Bengal till 5.30 pm: Election Commission of India

5:23 PM: TMC lodges a complaint with Election Commission alleging capturing of 8 booths by BJP workers in Moyna constituency.

"BJP workers are attempting to take control of EVM & are rigging the booth. CRPF deployed at the booth is not taking any action," it reads.

Home Minister himself is instructing CRPF, BSF and other jawans to help only BJP and its goons. I apologise to my Election Commission for their silence. We have given so many letters but they are one-sidedly supporting BJP candidates: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

"Issues flagged by Mamata Banerjee a while ago on phone have been imparted to the concerned. I am confident all will act in the right spirit and earnestness so that democracy flourishes," tweets Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar.

3:22 PM: Modi questions Mamata Banerjee whether she will be filing nominations from another constituency, TMC dismisses speculations, says she is winning Nandigram comfortably. 

"Didi, are you going to fill nomination on another seat? First you went to Nandigram, and the people gave you an answer! Wherever you go, the people of Bengal are ready to give you the right answer," PM Modi.

Dismissing the speculations, TMC said that the question of CM fighting from any second seat doesn't arise, as she will be winning from Nandigram comfortably. 

PM Modi accuses Mamata of favouring infiltrators and insulting the people of Bharat Mata as 'outsiders'. Sometimes Didi calls me a tourist, sometimes an outsider. Didi, you consider infiltrators as your own but call children of Bharat Mata as outsiders. Didi, stop distinguishing people & insulting the Constitution by labelling people as outsiders: PM Narendra Modi in Uluberia. 

He further said that Mamata Banerjee led TMC has taken away health from the poor and future from the youth! "The industry that has prospered in the last 10 years are - Extortion industry, Tolabazi industry, Trafficking industry and Mafia industry," said Modi.

4;12 PM: The second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election intensifies as security has been beefed up in Debra. As per reports, security personnel stated, "We are trying to control the situation"

Meanwhile, PM Modi while addressing a rally at Uluberia said that people want to save their future and identity hence they have fulfilled their dream today, "Didi must go", he said.

Banerjee on the other hand flashing a victory sign has asked the Election Commission and Amit Shah to 'control their goons'.

Suvendu Adhikari hits back at Mamata Banerjee, says she is concerned about the polling agents who were ousted from the polling booth, however, when her people pelted stones on media & injured one, she said nothing. He further accused her of violating Model Code of Conduct. 

3:34 PM: Pritish R Kuar, BJP candidate from Keshpur alleges that he has been atacked by TMC workers. (Courtesy: ANI)

3:31 PM: 71.07 per cent of voters turnout in West Bengal till 3:31 pm: Election Commission of India

3:30 PM: Taking a dig at Mamata Banerjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally at Jaynagar said that the TMC supremo is afraid of losing elections following which she has appealed to other non-BJP political parties for 'help and support'.

It needs to be mentioned here that Banerjee on Wednesday wrote letters to non-BJP parties to unite against the BJP's 'attack on democracy and the constitution of India'. She further suggested the parties to come together and chart out a 'plan of action' against the BJP's 'one-party authoritarian rule in India'.

Modi further said that the Constitution does not permit her to speak against other states in regard to the comment she has made that 'outsiders were brought to create chaos' during the assembly elections in Bengal.

'I am not one to show reverence at temples seasonally, always take pride in our faith and tradition' said PM Modi on TMC criticism of temple visits. He also hit back at TMC for calling his Bangladesh trip unethical and violative of model code, while defending his visits to temples there.

Modi exhorting confidence said that BJP will get more than 200 seats in Bengal.

3:00 PM: Ruckus continues near a polling booth in Debra where locals had earlier alleged that people from outside are being called to create problems here. Locals now say, "We want Bharti didi to leave immediately".  BJP's Bharti Ghosh & TMC's Humayun Kabir contesting from Debra.

BJP supporters at Uluberia wear t-shirts with 'Raag Keno Didi' (Why Angry, Didi?) written on them. (Courtesy: ANI)

Polling parties escorted by ITBP to Sundarbans island during the second phase of polling in West Bengal.

2:45 PM: Mamata Banerjee alleges that local people were not allowed to cast their vote, talks to Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar over the phone at a polling booth in Nandigram and appeals to him to look into the matter. 

2:30 PM: Wheelchair bound Mamata Banerjee who is taking stock of the situation in Nandigram while addressing the media said that 'outsiders are creating chaos and they have been brought especially for this purpose'.

She further added that 63 poll related complaints have been filed but no action has been taken so far by the Election Commission.

BJP supporters resorted to sloganeering following Banerjee's presence in a polling booth in Nandigram. Reportedly, they were chanting "Jai Shri Ram", following which she said that outsiders coming from Bihar and UP are creating chaos.

As per reports, Banerjee stated that "people who are raising slogans are outsiders. They came from Bihar and UP, and they are being protected by Central Forces."

Meanwhile, forces are trying to calm the situation at the Nandigram Booth. (Courtesy: ANI)

1:53 PM: Following an attack on BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari's convoy as well as the media, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan tweeted, "Each stone hurled at innocent people and on BJP will be used to build the exit path for the anarchist regime of TMC!"

1:32 PM: Have registered complaints for 10 specific booths, says TMC MP Derek O'Brien.

"Mamata has fought against the BJP like a tigress and is sure to emerge as the winner", says Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut. Earlier, the Shiv Sena on March extended its support to TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, and said it would not contest Assembly elections in Bengal. Hailing Mamata as the "real Bengal tigress", the party, which had earlier said that it would join the electoral battle in the state, vowed to "stand in solidarity" with the TMC.

1:30 PM: 56.99 per cent voter turnout recorded till 1.25 PM in the second phase of polling in West Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee takes stock of situation. She has decided to stay in Nandigram during the phase II of the assembly elections.

TMC MP Mahua Moitra alleged that more than 150 EVM machines malfunctioning since Phase II voting started this morning.

1:00 PM: TMC's Derek O Brien writes to EC alleging booth capture by BJP workers in Nandigram Assembly Constituency (Courtesy: ANI)

Will it be 35 or 40 out of 30 for BJP? Questions Yashwant Sinha. Earlier, on March, Sinha joined the TMC after Mamata Banerjee was injured in Nandigram. 

12:40 PM: Suvendu Adhikari's convoy attacked in Nandigram, says report. Although Adhikari's car remained untouched, a media vehicle in the convoy suffered some damages. 

Meanwhile, BJP claims that the cops have declined to register complaints, and there is a "Darr Ka Mahaul" (atmosphere of fear).

11:30 AM: 37.42% voter turnout recorded till 11.00 am in the second phase of polling in West Bengal, respectively: Election Commission of India

Shishir Bajoria, Spokesperson of BJP Kolkata, says, "Nandigram has been the hub of the Adhikari family. It is the Adhikaris who got the TMC there."

10:58 AM: As per latest reports, a BJP worker was found hanging at his home in Nandigram in West Bengal's Purba Medinipur district. The incident has triggered tension as the constituency continues to witness the most high profile battle of the West Bengal Assembly elections. The deceased identified as Uday Dubey was found hanging at his home in the Bhekutia area of Nandigram in the morning. While the BJP has accused the TMC behind the incident, TMC denied the charges and hit out at the BJP for indulging in politics over a death.

10:50 AM: As per ECI, the total voter turnout in West Bengal is 15.72 per cent at 10:50 AM.

10:44 AM: Local BJP leader Tanmay Ghosh's car vandalised:

A woman polling agent of BJP at booth no.173 in Keshpur beaten up allegedly by TMC workers today. Local BJP leader Tanmay Ghosh's car vandalised. BJP accuses TMC of causing violence, while stating that the free and fair polls are not practices. BJP candidate from Keshpur assembly seat further said that the central forces are inactive. 

10:08 AM: CPIM workers agitated at Ghatal today, alleged that they were being stopped by TMC workers as they were on their way to cast their vote. (Courtesy: ANI)

One of your votes will definitely bring change in Bengal. So, everyone come forward and vote to build a safe and prosperous Bengal: Union home Minister Amit Shah

9:49 AM: BJP polling agent at booth number 173 in Keshpur beaten up allegedly by TMC workers. The polling agent has been rushed to a hospital. BJP leader Tanmay Ghosh's car vandalised.

9:43 AM: As per reports, BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh departs for polling booth 22 where TMC workers are not allowing polling agent of BJP to enter. She is being accompanied by a CRPF team.

Meanwhile, voters alleged that parties are creating unrest in Debra. (Courtesy: ANI)

Police detain Mohan Singh, BJP's Mandal President of Debra.

As the voting is underway in the West Bengal election, Trinamool Congress appealed to the electorate to cast their votes in large numbers.

9:15 AM: As per ECI, the total voter turnout in West Bengal is 6.49 per cent.

District wise voter turnout: 

Bankura: 1.20 %

Paschim Medinipur: 8.46%

Purba Medinipur: 1.79%

South 24 Pargans: 5.97%

Mamata Banerjee will not win in Nandigram: Suvendu Adhikari.

9:10 AM: As per ECI, the total voter turnout in West Bengal is 1.29 per cent.

The people here want development. We need a super speciality hospital and a women's college here. A large number of people have come out to cast their vote today: Hiron Chatterjee, actor and BJP candidate from Kharagpur Sadar assembly constituency. (Courtesy: ANI)

 9:00 AM: As per ECI, the total voter turnout in West Bengal is 0.56 per cent.

TMC takes a jibe at BJP, wishes April Fool's Day.

8:50 AM: Unidentified miscreants killed a TMC worker with a sharp weapon last night, at Dadpur village in West Midnapore district. SP West Midnapore says, "Eight people arrested in connection with the murder." (Courtesy: ANI)

8:45 AM: Anirban Banerjee, Political Analyst says, "We have been witnessing an inflow of outside elements in Nandigram from Bihar and Jharkhand, but no formidable action has been taken by the Election Commission."

As per ECI, the total voter turnout in West Bengal is 0.24 per cent. 

8:40 AM: Bharti Ghosh, BJP candidate from Debra constituency says, "In Nowpara, booth no. 22, Anchal-1, my polling agent has been surrounded by 150 TMC goons. He hasn't been allowed to enter the polling booth. In Barunia, voters being threatened and shown the TMC symbol."

 8:35 AM: ITBP troops guard polling booths in East Midnapore district and help out senior citizens there, during the second phase of West Bengal Elections.

8:33AM: TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee continues to camp in Nandigram. As per reports, she changed her schedule amid incidents of violence overnight. She will stay in Nandigram till tomorrow.

171 candidates in 30 constituencies will fight it out for the 249-member West Bengal Legislative Assembly today. 

Owing to the high-stakes Nandigram constituency, the Election Commission has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC in entire Nandigram assembly constituency in West Bengal on Wednesday.

A senior official of the poll body said the EC has also conducted air surveillance in the area with the help of a helicopter in view of the sensitivity of the area and people who are not voters of Nandigram are being barred from entering it, said reports.

8:00 AM: Trinamool Congress TMC worker dead in Keshpur, party alleges BJP's hand. In another incident a TMC worker was allegedly stabbed to death in West Bengal's Paschim Medinipur district in early hours of Thursday, hours before polling started in the area, said reports. 

CRPF bravehearts extending assistance to the voters in addition to their duties during the West Bengal Elections. In high-stakes Nandigram, where there are 355 polling booths, around 22 companies of central forces have been deployed. 

7:55 AM: Voters come out in large numbers in Nandigram.

7:50 AM: Suvendu Adhikari, BJP Candidate from Nandigram, casts his vote. "Voting is underway, the situation is under control. People are hoping for development," he says.

After casting his vote Adhikari urges people to come out in large numbers to cast their vote, as the whole country is looking at Nandigram. (Courtesy: ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges people to vote in record numbers.

Of the 171 candidates in the fray, 152 are male candidates and 19 are female candidates. The total number of voters in Phase II are 75, 95, 549.

Bankura is the constituency with the maximum number of candidates at 11, and Keshpur and Indus are the constituencies with the least number of candidates at 3.

7:26 AM: Polling underway at booth number 76 in Debra, West Midnapore district, in the second phase of Assembly elections. Courtesy: ANI

7:15 AM: 10,620 polling stations set up in West Bengal

7:10 AM: Voting begins in West Bengal. Long queues seen at Bankura polling stations.

All eyes on Nandigram as two-time West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee locks horn with Suvendu Adhikary of BJP.

March 27: It is going to be a bitter battle between Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP and two-time West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee, as West Bengal today witnessed the first phase of the eight-phased elections for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly. A total of 191 candidates in 30 constituencies were in the fray in Phase 1. The 30 constituencies are spread across 5 districts of the state. Over 73 lakh voters will cast their vote in Phase 1. At least, 10,288 polling stations set up in West Bengal to vote in 8 phases.

The first phase of elections have witnessed a massive uproar, with both BJP and TMC accusing each other of practicing unfair means. While the BJP accused the TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee of taking favour from a BJP leader to grab power in the Nandigram seat, TMC reached the Election Commission to highlight the discrepancies in the data provided by the EC. They further urged the EC to deploy local people as the polling agents.

5:30 PM: As of 5:30 PM the voter turnout is 79.79 percent - ECI

4:58 PM: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee while addressing two public rallies at Narayangarh and Pingla in West Midnapore district asked the womenfolk to confront the BJP hired goons with ladle, spatula and other cooking utensils. In the rallies she also referred to the Adhikari family as traitors and even alleged that a member of the family was caught red-handed distributing money amongst the people on Friday night, hours before the election. "Yesterday, one of the Adhikari brothers was seen distributing money... Women in the area caught him red-handed and asked the police to arrest him. They also handed over 30 goons, all hired from outside, to the police," she said.

4:50 PM: A BJP delegation headed by the BJP leader  Kailash Vijayvargiya, had a meeting with the CEO handing over the audio clip of Mamata seeking help to win her election from Nandigram. The delegation is claiming that Mamata Banerjee was using her official position to alter the outcome of the assembly poll.BJP today complained to Election Commission over an alleged audiotape of Mamata Banerjee where she can be heard asking a Nandigram BJP leader, an aide of Suvendu Adhikari, to back her. However, the TMC has claimed that the voice in the purported call is not verified. 

Meanwhile, Security forces resorted to lathi charge on BJP, TMC workers after clash at polling booth in West Midnapore.

A BJP delegation met with the EC following the alleged attack on BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari's brother, Soumendu Adhikari.

4:26 PM: Union Minister & BJP leader Giriraj Singh slams West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after Soumendu Adhikari's car was attacked. (Courtesy: ANI)

Report: BJP and TMC accuse each other of poll rigging as the voting is underway in the first phase of West Bengal assembly elections.

3:45 PM: As of 3:45 PM the voter turnout is 70.17 percent - ECI

TMC delegation urges the EC to go back to the practice of appointing voters of the local assembly segment in the location of the polling booth as polling agents. This rule has become redundant in recent times.

3:36 PM: Congress has fielded Partha Pratim Banerjee from Purulia assembly seat in place of sitting MLA Sudip Mukherjee, who has recently joined the BJP.

TMC stages protest against violence perpetrated by the BJP in front of Nandigram police station.

3:26 PM: BJP General Secretary Vijay Wadia says, "1st election in 6 years with fewer instances of rigging & violence. To avoid even 10% of such cases in 2nd phase, we demanded EC round-up anti-social elements."

3:15 PM: Mamata Banerjee while addressing a rally in Kharagpur says, "Elections are underway here and he (PM) goes to Bangladesh and lectures on Bengal. It is a total violation of code of conduct of the election." She further alleged that the PM goes to Bangladesh for vote marketing, whereas she is accused of infiltration in the state.

"In 2019 LS polls when a Bangladeshi actor attended our rally, BJP spoke to Bangladesh govt and cancelled his visa.... When polls are underway here, you go to Bangladesh to seek votes from one section of people, why shouldn't your visa be cancelled?We will complain to EC," she added. (Courtesy: ANI)

3:00 PM: BJP complains to Election Commission over an alleged audiotape of Mamata Banerjee where she can be heard asking a Nandigram BJP neta, an aide of Suvendu Adhikari, to back her. Earlier, today Pralay Pal, a BJP leader and close aide to Suvendu Adhikari claimed that Mamata Banerjee personally called him and asked him to help TMC in Nandigram. 

2:21 PM: Sisir Adhikari, father of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, casts his vote at Contai polling booth.

As Nandigram will go to polls in the second phase on April 1, "We will take the help of more Central forces at polling booths from now only ahead of second phase of elections: Sisir Adhikari, father of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. (Courtesy: ANI)

 2:15 PM: As of 1:56 PM the voter turnout is 54.90 percent - ECI

District Wise: 

1. Bankura -57.40%

2. Jhargram -59.23%

3. Paschim Medinipur -52.60%

4. Purbo Medinipur -57.75%

5. Purulia -51.42%

2:12 PM: "Khela Hobe? (the game is on?), the game will be on, and BJP will get bowled out from the ground," says Mamata Banerjee launching an attack at BJP while addressing a rally at Narayangarh of Paschim Medinipur.

2:10 PM: Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Minister of Steel, says, "West Bengal is going to see 'poribortan' in this election," during a rally at Debipur village of Nandigram.

BJP and TMC workers clash in Nandigram. The TMC alleges that the BJP cadre attacked three of its workers following which they were sent to the hospital.

2:00 PM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets members of Matua community in Orakandi: Modi visits representatives of the Matua community at Orakandi in Bangladesh. A large section of the community lives in West Bengal. The community is a Scheduled Caste group with a presence in at least six parliamentary seats of West Bengal. The meeting with the community holds signifacance as it is at the centre of vote bank politics, and will play a key role in the assembly elections.

1:56 PM : As of 1:56 PM the voter turnout is 54.90 percent - ECI

1:30 PM: TMC Medinipur candidate June Malia alleges, "BJP candidate himself is present at booth number 285 & 286 and is creating a havoc."

1:18 PM : 51.53% voter turnout recorded till 1:18 pm, in the first phase of polling in West Bengal Assembly elections: Election Commission of India.

12: 50 PM: In the scheduled meeting with the Election Commission, a TMC delegation headed by Mala Roy and Sudip Banerjee pointed out the discrepancy in the data provided by the EC and various other issues. "Today we have visited CEO of EC. Polling agents have to be from the same locality, but BJP requested EC to send any person that the party decides. We request EC to change it from the 2nd phase election", said Sudip Banerjee. He also stated "First phase vote is over. We demand for deploying local people for booth agents. Then it will easy for all to track them. CEO assured us that they will take this note seriously."

TMC allegedly claims that the voters in Bankura's Saltora have been thrashed by BJP workers.

12:30 PM: Vehicle of Suvendu Adhikari's brother Soumendu attacked in Contai, the BJP leader alleged that the TMC members were involved.

"Under the leadership of TMC block president Ram Govind Das and his wife poll rigging was underway at three polling booths. My arrival here created problem for them to continue with their mischiefs so they attacked my car and thrashed my driver," states BJP leader Soumendu Adhikari.

"I got to know that vehicle of Soumendu Adhikari was attacked in Contai with the help of TMC block president Ram Govind Das. Soumendu isn't injured. Driver was beaten up. I have informed Police Observer," states Dibyendu Adhikari who is a TMC leader and brother of Soumendu Adhikari. (Courtesy: ANI)

12:21 PM: A Congress Delegation appeals to the Election Commission alleging that voters from various parts of of Purulia and East Medinipur have been stopped from voting by miscreants. "It is really unfortunate that Susanta Ghosh was attacked by TMC goons. We strongly condemn this. Central force is not taking proper action. They absolutely fail to get the confidence of voters", the Congress delegation stated.

Sushanto Ghosh, CPI(M) Candidate, narrates an alleged incident of attack on him which he claims was carried out by 'state ruling party TMC along with BJP's help.'

BJP alleges TMC chief Mamata Banerjee sought help from BJP district Vice-President for help in Nandigram. 

Earlier, Pralay Pal, a BJP leader and close aide to Suvendu Adhikari claimed that Mamata Banerjee personally called him and asked him to help TMC in Nandigram

12:15 PM: Dilip Ghosh, the President of West Bengal BJP casts his vote at a polling booth in Jhargram

Voting underway in Purulia during the first phase of polling for West Bengal Assembly elections (Courtesy: ANI)

West Bengal polling time till 6:30 pm today.

11: 50 AM: Pralay Pal, a BJP leader and close aide to Suvendu Adhikari has revealed that Mamata Banerjee personally called him and asked him to help TMC in Nandigram.

11:48 AM: Protests breaks out at Mazna. TMC alleges foul play.

11:45 AM: Suvendu Adhikari's brother Soumendu Adhikari's car was ransacked and his driver was injured.

11:42 AM: BJP West Bengal President Dilip Ghosh responds to TMC's allegations of rigging the polls by stating, "TMC knows that it is losing and that is why it is saying all these. For such complaints, TMC should go to the Election Commission. TMC and Mamata Banerjee are under pressure and that is why they are saying such things." (Courtesy: ANI)

Voter turnout in the first phase of West Bengal Assembly Election at 11:30 AM is 35.54.

Meanwhile, Derek O'Brien has written a letter to the EC inquiring about the reason for the discrepancy in the voter turnout percentage within the span of five minutes and also raised questions on the data provided by the EC. 

BJP has alleged that the TMC is trying to create tension in the area during polling. 

11:26 AM: CPI(M) candidate attacked in Salboni, West Bengal. Cops nab 3 people in connection to attack.

West Bengal's Baghmundi is the only assembly seat where BJP-ally All Jharkhand Students Union-party (AJSU-P) has fielded its candidate Ashutosh Mahato. (Courtesy: Hindustan Times)

 11:25 AM: As of 11:15 AM, the voter count is 18.56 percent: Reports

11:19 AM: In the Kanthi Dakshin assembly seat, voters allege that they have voted for TMC but the VVPAT instead showed them the BJP symbol. 

TMC urges Election Commission to look into the matter.

11:00 AM: Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh exuded confidence that his party will win in the state.

10:56 AM: On March 30, Home Minister Amit Shah will hold a road show in Nandigram to campaign for Suvendu Adhikari, the BJP candidate who is contesting against chief minister Mamata Banerjee : BJP sources

10:45 AM: Two security personnel injured in bombing, firing in Purba Medinipur. Sporadic incidents of violence were reported from some areas in West Bengal.

10:44 AM: Bharatiya Janata Party delegation led by party leader Kailash Vijayvargiya to meet CEO West Bengal at 2pm: BJP delegation headed by Kailash Vijayvargiya will meet the West Bengal EC at 2pm after the TMC Parliamentary delegation is done with their meeting as scheduled at 12 noon on Saturday.

10:40 AM: TMC alleges central forces influencing voters, the TMC claimed EVM malfunctions in 5 assembly polls, "BJP workers mishandling EVM machines," says TMC. 

10:36 AM: Report: The elections, which will continue till 6 pm, are being held amid tight security.

10:30 AM: TMC Medinipur candidate June Malia visits the polling booth to see if everything is functioning properly. Malia complains that her name is not visible on EVMs in certain booths.

10:25 AM: PM Modi prays at Jeshoreswari Kali temple in Ishwaripur village in Bangladesh. Temple visit coincides with Phase 1 polls in Assam and West Bengal.

Barring a few seats of Purba Medinipur district, most of the 30 seats where voting is going on including in Pashchim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia and Bankura are in the State's Junglemahal region that was once a hotbed of Left-Wing Extremism.

10:15 AM: 14.28% voting has been recorded till 9 AM: CEO office. Meanwhile, the ruling TMC alleges glitch in voting percentage recorded. Questions how the voting percentage can reduce drastically to half within a gap of just 5 mins.

10:11 AM: BJP leader Amit Malviya: TMC knows Mamata Banerjee is losing Nandigram and Bengal.

Satyadihi: A village in West Bengal's Jhargram votes but has never seen its candidates. 

10:00 AM: Four people arrested in East Midnapore after they attacked a sub inspector with a bomb, more details awaited.

Suvendu Adhikari asks Election Commission to suspend Haldia Additional SP for helping TMC's malpractices during polls.

Voter turnout till 9AM in West Bengal: Bankura: 8.84%

                                                            Jhargram: 4.62%.

                                                            West Medinipur: 7.94%.

                                                             East Medinipur: 13.84%.

                                                             Purulia: 13.97%.

9:40 AM: Delegation of TMC MPs to meet West Bengal CEO today at 12 noon: Ten MPs of TMC will visit EC at 12 noon to raise concerns as per reports. TMC has alleged EVM malfunctioning in polling booths across Bankura, Purulia, West Midnapore and East Midnapore. Further, TMC has alleged that the BJP was using Central Forces to influence people in Manjushree GP to vote for their party. TMC also accused BJP workers of entering the poll booths in many location, misguiding the voters and mobilizing with the CRPF. The ten member Trinamool Parliamentary delegation will be led by Sudip Bandopadhyay and Derek O' Brien

Derek O' Brien, TMC MP tweets ' TMC will win Bengal Polls'.

BJP candidate from Midnapore, Samit Das, alleges TMC of resorting to unfair means on the first phase of polling.

9:20 AM: EVM malfunction in Bankura, Purulia and Jhargram.

People will choose whom they want, TMC is scared: Soumendu Adhikari.

East Midnapore: 2 security personnel injured in a firing incident at Satsatmal, Bhagwanpur assembly constituency, early morning today, ahead of voting for West Bengal polls

Anup Chakraborty, BJP Dist President: Those associated with TMC trying to terrorise people in Argoal panchayat area.

About 20% of households in phase 1 depend on cultivation for their primary income: Reports.

Purulia MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato casted his vote. "Voted for development and good governance! My appeal to all of you to reach your booths at the earliest and use your vote," says Mahato.

Voters are being influenced and stopped from voting at booth no. 149. - Soumendu Adhikari,BJP leader and brother of Suvendu Adhikari. "Overall polling being held peacefully. EVMs malfunctioning at some locations, it happens in all polls, EC is looking into it," Adhikari added.

The Election Commission has set up a total of 10,288 polling stations including 2059 auxiliary polling stations keeping in mind the COVID situation.

I call upon the people of Bengal to exercise their democratic right by coming out and voting in large numbers: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.

As many as 1,23,393 electors are aged 80 and above and about 40,408 electors are of persons with disability (PwD) category.

8:44 AM : CPI(M) candidate from Salboni, Sushanta Ghosh was allegedly attacked by TMC workers.

I appeal to the first phase voters of West Bengal to vote in greater numbers fearlessly to restore the pride of Bengal. One vote of yours will make Bengal's creation of the imagination of great men like Subhash Chandra Bose, Gurudev Tagore and Shyama Prasad Mukherjee: Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

8:24 AM: BJP candidate from West Midnapore, Samit Das casts his vote at a polling booth in the first phase of West Bengal Elections 2021. After casting his vote, Das informed that voting in Midnapore town went smoothly. However, Das alleged that at some places in rural areas, TMC workers are trying to create a disturbance. "At booth no. 266 & 267, 7-8 TMC workers entered the booth to influence the voters. We've complained to EC," Das added.

Tripura CM Biplab Kumar Deb urges people of Bengal, to give their verdict in the interest of the state and establish a development-oriented government in Bengal under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BJP National President JP Nadda while urged people to vote, while maintaining Covid precautions.

The fate of the 191 candidates would be decided by 73,80,942 (73.80 lakh) voters of which 37,52,938 (37.52 lakh) are male and 36,27,949 (36.27 lakh) are women voters. 

8:13 AM: Kharagpur: Polling underway

Kolkata: As per reports, 22 crude bombs recovered.

8:00 AM: Khejuri: BJP workers attacked

Violence across multiple places reported in West Bengal.

Kharagpur people wait for hours to cast vote as EVM malfunctions are reported.

Three reported injured in TMC office in Bankura.

Total number of female candidates contesting in Phase I of West Bengal Assembly Elections is 21.

90% of voters in Phase 1 (30 constituencies) of West Bengal polls are from rural areas.

Reports of EVM malfunction in Kharagpur.

Purulia has the highest deployment of forces with 185 companies deputed in 3127 polling booths.

7:41 AM: Patashpur: Central forces attacked.

7:40 AM: Violence in Phase 1 of West Benal polls. Bus meant for EC staff torched in Purulia

7:36 AM : Row over booth agents.

TMC MPs to meet Election Commission
Election Commission ensures no mask, no vote policy in West Bengal, Sanitisers, masks made available at polling stations as voting takes place amid rising COVID numbers.

Today, Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections begin. I would request all those who are voters in the seats polling today to exercise their franchise in record numbers: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Voting begins in West Bengal. Today is Phase 1 of West Bengal Assembly elections.

191 candidates in the fray in 30 constituencies in 5 districts. Over 73 lakh voters to cast vote in Phase 1

At least 10,288 polling stations have been set up for the 8 phase polls. 

March 20:
Ahead of the West Bengal state assembly election 2021, actor couple Neel and Trina Bhattacharya joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday.

The husband-wife join a league of other Tollywood actors, including June Malia, Lovely Moitra and Sayani Ghosh, who are backing Mamata Banerjee's party this poll season.

March 19

BJP's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya on Friday said the party's manifesto for the forthcoming West Bengal Assembly polls will be released by the Union home minister Amit Shah on March 21 in Kolkata.

March 19

'Bid farewell to BJP, we don't want BJP. We don't want to see Modi's face. We don't want riots, looters, Duryodhan, Dushasana, Mir Jafar' says West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee during a public rally in East Midnapore

March 19
Senior TMC leader and former West Bengal minister Madan Mitra on Friday were summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in connection with the probe into the Saradha chit fund scam. "I was asked by the ED to appear before its officials today. I will continue to cooperate with the investigation," said the TMC leader. 

March 14
Mamata Banerjee Releases TMC Manifesto, says free ration will be provided at doorstep

This is not a political manifesto, it is a development-oriented manifesto. This a manifesto of the people, for the people, and by the people, says West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

March 13
"The report submitted by the West Bengal government appeared to be quite sketchy and without any details of the incident like how it happened or who could be behind it. We have asked the state administration to furnish more details," an EC official said.

March 12
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari will be fighting the upcoming assembly elections against TMC chief Mamata Banerjee from the Nandigram seat.

Adhikari switched over from TMC to the BJP in December and is up against the chief minister who decided to challenge him at his home ground.

March 11

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in a video clip from her hospital bed at SSKM where she was rushed after the alleged attack on her said: "I received injuries in my leg and ligaments. Hopefully, I will be discharged in a couple of days.

"There will be problems in my leg but I shall not cancel any of my political programmes. I will take part in the campaigns on a wheelchair, if necessary".

"I will manage it. I will not waste any of my scheduled meetings," she promised.

March 11

The Trinamool Congress on Thursday postponed the release of its manifesto for the upcoming elections in West Bengal, following the alleged attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, party leaders said.

"The manifesto release has been postponed for the time being. It will be released after Mamata Banerjee gets well and is back home. Although our manifesto is ready, there is no question of releasing it without her," a senior TMC leader said.

March 11

Mamata Banerjee was allegedly attacked on Wednesday evening by four-five men who pushed her, besides banging on her the door of her car, injuring her left leg, waist, shoulder and neck as she fell on the ground.

Meanwhile, senior district officials on Thursday morning visited the area in Nandigram where West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was allegedly attacked while campaigning for the upcoming assembly elections.

March 9

The Trinamool Congress lost five more sitting MLAs as defections continued to rock West Bengal's ruling party ahead of the assembly polls.

After four-time MLA Sonali Guha, another four-time legislator, Jatu Lahiri, and former footballer Dipendu Biswas, a first-time MLA, also switched sides after their names did not feature in the TMC's candidate list released on March 5.

One more TMC MLA, Sital Sardar. also joined the saffron party later.

March 8

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit at the Kolkata's Brigade Parade Ground, Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee took a dig at PM Modi's over the inclusion of his picture in Covid-19 vaccination certificates.

Addressing a rally the Bengal chief minister said,  "The prime minister has named a stadium after him. He has put his photographs on Covid-19 vaccination certificates. A day will come when the country will be named after him," Banerjee said while addressing a rally here on the occasion of International Women's Day. 

March 7

Tea garden workers are set to play a decisive role in many constituencies in the Assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam. Keeping this in mind, all the parties including Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, are trying to lure them. Read more

March 7

Denied ticket by Mamata Banerjee, TMC MLA Sonali Guha likely to join BJP today.

It is to be mentioned that TMC has already declared their list of candidates in the run-up to the Bengal polls, which will begin from March 27.

Speaking to the media Guha said, "I have been asked by Mukulda to come to the Hastings office tomorrow at 1 pm and will join the BJP there".

March 7

Actor Mithun Chakraborty joined the BJP on Sunday in the presence of state party chief Kailash Vijayvargiya and former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi.

He joined the party at Kolkata's famous Brigade ground, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is soon expected to address an election rally.

March 6

West Bengal Congress releases the first list of candidates for 13 seats for the upcoming election.

March 6

Trinamool Congress MP who said that he was feeling "suffocated" over "violence in the state" joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in presence of the party's national president J P Nadda and Union Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi.

On February 12, the former Union Minister for Railways was speaking during the debate on the Budget when he made the announcement of quitting TMC.

March 5

Mamata Banerjee led-Trinamool Congress on March 5 released the final list of candidates for the upcoming eight-phased Assembly elections in West Bengal.

The party would contest 291 seats out of the total 294 while reserving the remaining three seats in Darjeeling for its allies.

March 5

Ahead of Assembly polls, an iconic sweet shop in Kolkata has launched 'sandesh' sweets etched with logos, slogans of political parties.

"We make new items as per season. Customers are liking the election-themed Sandesh and buying as per preference," says the shop's manager.

March 5

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said that the party is releasing a list of 291 candidates which includes 50 women, 42 Muslim candidates. On 3 seats of north Bengal, we not putting up our candidates. I will contest from Nandigram

"I am going to Nandigram on 9th March. On 10th March, I will file the nomination at Haldia, " said Mamata Banerjee.

March 1

ABP-C-Voter opinion poll suggests that Mamata Banerjee led TMC is set to return to power in West Bengal.

As per the opinion poll, Mamata Banerjee is all set to score a hat-trick in Bengal with the TMC winning around 148-164 seats in the 294-member Assembly. The BJP is expected to increase its tally to somewhere around 92-108 seats from just 3 at present.

March 1

The Bhartiya Janata Party wrote a letter to the Kolkata police commissioner alleging that the Trinamool Congress Party TMC along with some of the top cops of the police department have been engaged in 'irregular act' ahead of the Assembly polls under the banner of Welfare Associations. Read more

February 26

The west Bengal polling dates announced & will be held in 8 phases, meanwhile, counting of votes for all five assembly elections on May 2.

Meanwhile just ahead of the announcement of the date, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today tweeted that up to 56,500 workers - 40,500 unskilled, 8,000 semi-skilled, and 8,000 skilled - will benefit from this.

February 25

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressing an election rally in Hooghly district took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Further, the Bengal chief minister called the PM the biggest 'dangabaaz' (rioter) in the country.

Attacking PM Modi, Banerjee said that the BJP leader will face an "even worse fate" than former US President Donald Trump.

"Narendra Modi is the biggest 'dangabaaz' (rioter) in the country... What has happened to Trump, he (Modi) will meet an even worse fate. Nothing can be gained from violence," the Trinamool supremo said.

February 23

Prime Minister Narendra addressing a rally in Kolkata said that the enthusiasm and energy by the crowd are sending a message from Kolkata to Delhi.

"Now West Bengal has made up its mind for 'poriborton' (change)," he said.

Pitching for a BJP government in poll-bound Bengal, Modi said that the BJP government should be formed not just for political 'poribartan' (political change), but for 'asol poribartan' (real change) in the state. "Lotus will bring that 'asol poribartan' that youth aims for," he said.

February 22

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb is said to attend several political events and rallies for the upcoming West Bengal election.

An official of the CM's Secretariat said that Deb during his three-day stay in Bengal would attend several roadshows, Rath Yatra and poll-related events on Tuesday and Wednesday in the North 24 Parganas district in the election-bound state.

February 20

Amit Shah was at the Lok Sabha constituency of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee and had lunch at Subrata Biswas's home in Narayanpur village in Diamond Harbour.

The home of the migrant family from Bangladesh was decorated to welcome high-profile guests.

February 17

While the West Bengal election is just around the corner, a recently conducted opinion poll suggested that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) will return to power in West Bengal for the third time.

The opinion poll conducted by the CNX and ABP Ananda (a private news channel) showed that the TMC will get around 146 to 156 seats, while the BJP will win around 113 to 121 seats.

The opinion poll predicted that the TMC will face a reduction not only in the number of seats but also in terms of vote share. It bagged 211 seats and 44.9% votes it bagged in the last Assembly elections. But according to the opinion poll, it will get 42% votes in the upcoming Assembly elections.

February 16

The West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) will hold a meeting with its district wings ahead of the talks with the Left parties regarding the seat-sharing in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state.

The meeting will be chaired by the president of WBPCC, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.

February 13

Taking a jibe at West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that by the time the West Bengal assembly election ends, Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee will also start raising Jai Shri Ram slogans.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had declined to speak at an official event on January 23 where "Jai Shri Ram" slogans were raised in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

February 6

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national President JP Nadda arrived in Kolkata late at night on Friday.

Nadda is scheduled to launch the 'Poribartan Yatra' from Chatir math Ground in Nadia district's Nabadwip police station area on Saturday.

While the BJP's 'Parivartan Yatra' will start from Nabadwip and culminate at Barrackpore, TMC's 'Jansamarthan Yatra' will begin from Chapra and move through Krishnanagar and end at Palashi.

Ahead of the two mega rallies in West Bengal, the TMC has accused the BJP of indulging in "malicious propaganda", saying the saffron party is trying to communalise the upcoming assembly polls in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the BJP is using a formula to win West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021 by taking some traitors from TMC. She also went on to say that those who are joining the BJP should remember that they (BJP) are rioters.

February 5

A delegation of West Bengal Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leaders on Friday submitted a memorandum to the Election Commission of India demanding that Assembly elections in the state should be held in many phases and also requested it to deploy only paramilitary force at polling booths to give all parties a level playing field.

February 5

Congress leader Abdul Mannan has written a letter to party president Sonia Gandhi seeking permission to form an alliance with Abbas Siddiqui's Indian Secular Front (ISF).

Cong, Left to hold seat-sharing talks on Feb 7

Congress and the Left parties will hold a third-round meeting on February 7 to discuss the seat-sharing for the Bengal elections. The two parties had on Thursday decided the deal for 193 seats of the 294-member West Bengal Assembly.

February 5

A plea has been filed in Calcutta High Court against Bharatiya Janata Party's proposed 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal ahead of assembly elections in the state. The plea filed by a lawyer named Rama Prasad Sarkar, who seeks High Court's intervention to prevent BJP from holding the "Rath Yatras".

February 4

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the BJP is using a formula to win West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021 by taking some traitors from TMC. She also went on to say that those who are joining the BJP should remember that they (BJP) are rioters.

Earlier, former TMC minister Rajib Banerjee who recently quit the TMC and join the BJP alleged that irregularities have been detected in the recruitment of forest department personnel during his tenure.

Rajib Banerjee, who was a forest minister in the state cabinet, switched over to the BJP last week.

February 2

TMC MP and nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Abhishek Banerjee shared a video on his Twitter attacking the saffron party for 'insulting' the national anthem. "Those preaching about Patriotism & Nationalism can't even sing our National Anthem correctly. This is the party which claims to uphold India's honour and pride! SHAMEFUL! Will @narendramodi, @AmitShah, @BJP4India apologise for this "Anti-National" Act?" tweeted Banerjee with a hashtag #BJPInsultsNationalAnthem.

January 6

Laxmi Ratan Shukla as West Bengal minister of state for youth services and sports resigned from the ruling Trinamool Congress.

Shukla's resignation came months before the assembly election in the state and almost a fortnight after transport minister Suvendu Adhikari left the party and joined the BJP.