70.09% Voting Till 3 PM in Dharmanagar By-Election, Allegations of Intimidation and Obstruction Surface

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 9, 2026

The by-election to the 56–Dharmanagar Assembly Constituency recorded a significant voter turnout of 70.09% till 3 PM, reflecting strong public participation despite sporadic tensions and allegations of misconduct during polling.

The polling, conducted across 55 polling stations, began smoothly at 7:00 AM, with long queues of voters, many in traditional attire—seen waiting patiently to cast their votes using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Earlier in the day, around 52% voter turnout was recorded by 1:00 PM, and officials indicated that the final turnout could exceed 80% if the trend continues.The by-election was necessitated following the demise of former Speaker Bishwabandhu Sen in December last year.Congress candidate Chayan Bhattacharjee alleged attempts of vote manipulation and obstruction, claiming that certain elements tried to interfere with the democratic process. He raised concerns over irregularities and demanded strict monitoring to ensure a free and fair election.Despite the largely peaceful voting process, incidents of tension were reported in parts of the constituency. According to sources, a group of alleged miscreants, reportedly aligned with ruling party elements, attempted to obstruct journalists covering the polling process.At one point, journalists faced intimidation and were allegedly prevented from performing their duties. However, showing unity and courage, media personnel collectively protested against the interference. Under pressure, the accused individuals reportedly fled the scene on motorcycles.Journalists on the ground have been actively functioning as watchdogs to ensure transparency and fairness in the election process.In another incident near Polling Booth No. 24 in the Chandrapur area, tensions escalated when a group of alleged supporters of the ruling party reportedly violated the 100-meter restriction zone around the polling station. They allegedly attempted to disrupt an interaction between Chayan Bhattacharjee and the media.The situation, however, was brought under control after strong protests from journalists, forcing the miscreants to retreat.

While no major untoward incidents have been officially reported, these developments have raised concerns over attempts to influence the electoral environment. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that the remaining hours of polling proceed smoothly.The final voter turnout and overall conduct of the election will be closely watched as Dharmanagar witnesses a politically significant contest.

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