Kumarganj, Dakshin Dinajpur – The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 was marred by a violent incident in the Kumarganj constituency of Dakshin Dinajpur district on Thursday. Subhendu Sarkar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the seat, was allegedly assaulted, chased through open fields, and his vehicle vandalized by workers identified as supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
The incident occurred during the peak polling hours of April 23, 2026, as voter turnout surged across the state. According to local reports and eyewitness accounts, the violence broke out when Sarkar arrived at Booth No. 24 following reports that BJP polling agents were being forcibly removed from several stations in the area.
The Incident: Chased and Assaulted in Broad Daylight
The situation turned critical around midday when Subhendu Sarkar reached the polling booth to intervene. The candidate alleged that in at least 8 to 10 polling stations within the Kumarganj constituency, his agents had been intimidated and driven out by TMC cadre to facilitate “proxy voting.”
As Sarkar attempted to escort his agents back into the booth, a large group of men, allegedly carrying TMC flags and sticks, surrounded his convoy. A video that has since gone viral on social media shows the BJP candidate running across a muddy field alongside a single security personnel as a mob of nearly 20-30 people chased him. In the footage, individuals are seen catching up to Sarkar, pulling at his clothes, and attempting to throw punches before the security officer managed to shield him.
“I went there to ensure a fair process because our agents were being threatened. Instead, I was targeted,” Sarkar told reporters from his hospital bed later that evening. “They wanted to create an atmosphere of fear so that common people would stay home and not vote.”
Medical Condition and Police Action
Subhendu Sarkar was eventually rescued by a quick response team of the local police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) who reached the spot shortly after the assault. He was rushed to the nearest district hospital with minor injuries to his back and arms. Doctors confirmed that while his condition is stable, he is under observation for internal bruising.
Taking swift action, the West Bengal Police conducted raids in the nearby villages of Kumarganj. By Thursday evening, five individuals suspected of leading the assault were arrested. The police have registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including assault on a public servant and rioting.
Political War of Words Escalates
The attack has triggered a fresh wave of political bickering between the two major parties. The BJP has accused the TMC of using “muscle power” because they “sense a defeat.”
“Mamata Banerjee has lost the election, and the Trinamool Congress is losing all seats in this North Bengal region. Out of sheer desperation and fear, they are launching these cowardly attacks,” Sarkar asserted. Other BJP leaders, including Siliguri candidate Sankar Ghosh, echoed these sentiments, claiming that the Election Commission must take stricter measures to protect candidates.
On the other hand, the Trinamool Congress has denied the allegations, calling the incident a “staged drama” by the BJP to gain sympathy. Local TMC leaders claimed that the BJP candidate was trying to “incite trouble” near the booth and that the public reaction was spontaneous rather than party-led.
Election Commission Seeks Report
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken cognisance of the assault and the viral video. An official spokesperson stated that a detailed report has been sought from the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police of Dakshin Dinajpur.
Despite the violence in Kumarganj and sporadic clashes reported in Birbhum and Murshidabad, the overall voter turnout in the first phase remained high, crossing 78% by the end of the day. Dakshin Dinajpur recorded one of the highest turnouts at over 81%.
FAQs
Who is the BJP candidate from Kumarganj in the 2026 elections?
The BJP candidate for the Kumarganj Assembly seat in Dakshin Dinajpur is Subhendu Sarkar. He is a prominent local leader who has been active in the North Bengal region.
What exactly happened to the candidate on polling day?
Subhendu Sarkar was visiting Booth No. 24 in Kumarganj to check on reports of his polling agents being removed. While there, he was surrounded by a mob, allegedly belonging to the TMC, who chased and assaulted him. His vehicle was also damaged during the scuffle.
Have any arrests been made in the Kumarganj violence case?
Yes, the local police have arrested five individuals in connection with the attack on the BJP candidate. Investigation is ongoing to identify more suspects through the viral video footage.
What was the voter turnout in Dakshin Dinajpur despite the violence?
Despite the reports of clashes, Dakshin Dinajpur saw a very high voter turnout of approximately 81.49%, which was among the highest in the first phase of the West Bengal elections.
How has the Election Commission responded?
The Election Commission has asked for a factual report from the district authorities and has promised “exemplary action” against anyone found obstructing the democratic process.