West Bengal Polls 2026: 100 crude bombs recovered from TMC worker’s house in Bhangar

Around 100 crude bombs were recovered from a house in Bhangar ahead of phase two of West Bengal polls, prompting tighter security measures as authorities step up surveillance in sensitive areas.

Kolkata: Security concerns have intensified ahead of the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections after police recovered around 100 crude bombs from a residence in Bhangar, located in South 24 Parganas district.

Explosives seized during search operation

According to officials, the recovery was made during a search operation at the house of Rafikul Islam, who is allegedly linked to the All India Trinamool Congress. The operation was carried out based on specific intelligence inputs, leading to the seizure of a significant cache of explosives just days before polling in the constituency.

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Authorities have not disclosed further details about arrests, but the incident has raised concerns about attempts to disrupt the electoral process.

Security tightened in vulnerable areas

Following the recovery, election authorities have stepped up surveillance and security measures in sensitive pockets. Officials said strict instructions have been issued to senior police officers across jurisdictions, warning of action if any instance of intimidation or illegal activity is reported.

An Election Commission official said area domination exercises would be intensified to ensure voters can cast their ballots without fear. Increased patrolling and monitoring are being carried out in vulnerable zones.

Focus on peaceful polling

The second phase of polling, scheduled for April 29, will cover several constituencies, including Bhangar. The Election Commission has stressed that maintaining law and order is a top priority and that any attempt to influence or threaten voters will be dealt with firmly.

Extensive deployment planned

As part of its security strategy, the Election Commission has drawn up a detailed deployment plan for 142 constituencies going to polls in this phase. The plan includes increased presence of central forces and coordinated efforts between civil and police authorities.

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Officials said 160 motorcycles, each carrying two personnel from central armed police forces, will patrol local areas to enable quick response to any disturbance. Special focus is being placed on interior locations and densely populated neighbourhoods.

Multi-phase polling underway

The West Bengal Assembly elections are being conducted in multiple phases for the 294-member House. The first phase was held on April 23, while counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.

With heightened security and closer monitoring, authorities aim to ensure that polling proceeds smoothly and without disruption.