Nearly 20 months after losing her daughter in a case that sparked widespread outrage, Debnath entered the political arena, saying her contest is driven by the demand for justice and accountability.
A total of 3.21 crore electors, including 1.57 crore women and 792 third-gender voters, are eligible to cast their votes in the second phase of 2026 Assembly polls in West Bengal.
Debangshu Panda is representing the BJP from the Falta Assembly constituency and is pitted against Jehangir Khan of TMC.
The unrest follows a night of violence marked by allegations of crude bomb attacks, door-to-door intimidation and clashes that left several people injured. Competing narratives emerged from both sides, ISF accusing ruling TMC leaders of orchestrating fear, while TMC pointed fingers at police excesses and dismissed claims of targeted attacks.
A polling agent was allegedly attacked with iron rods in Nadia before voting began, leaving him with serious head injuries. He was rescued by police and hospitalised, even as early turnout crossed 18% across key districts.
Voting across 142 seats in West Bengal’s crucial second phase saw a slow start at some booths after EVM issues were alleged. As polling continued, BJP leaders expressed confidence of a major win while TMC focused on holding its strongholds.
Mamata Banerjee is contesting from the Bhabanipur seat against Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari in a prestige battle being looked upon as a symbolic rematch of Nandigram, where he had defeated her in 2021.
As the second phase of the West Bengal elections progresses, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday called upon voters to participate in significant numbers and utilise their democratic rights.
Abhishek Banerjee cast his vote at the Mitra Institution polling booth in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency during the second phase of 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal.
The ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is aiming for a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP has mounted an aggressive campaign to unseat the incumbent government.
