Dharmanagar by-election records strong voter turnout amid tight security, with six candidates contesting. Over 52 percent voting recorded by afternoon as Tripura witnesses a high-stakes multi-cornered political battle following the demise of former MLA Biswa Bandhu Sen.
The by-election for the Dharmanagar Assembly constituency in North Tripura began on Thursday morning with a steady voter turnout and strict security arrangements in place. Polling commenced at 7 a.m. across 55 polling stations, witnessing enthusiastic participation from voters early in the day. By 1 p.m., the voter turnout had reached an impressive 52.76 percent, reflecting a strong democratic response in the region.
Election officials confirmed that polling has remained peaceful, with no reports of untoward incidents so far. Long queues were visible outside several polling stations since the early hours, indicating heightened voter awareness and interest in the electoral process. Voting is scheduled to continue uninterrupted until 5 p.m.
A total of 46,142 voters are eligible to cast their votes in this crucial by-election, including 23,758 women voters. The election will determine the political future of six candidates representing a diverse mix of major parties, regional outfits, and an Independent contender. The multi-cornered contest has added significant intensity to the electoral battle, making the outcome difficult to predict.
Among the prominent candidates is Jahar Chakraborty of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who cast his vote at Chandrapur Higher Secondary School along with his wife Barnali Goswami. Other key contenders include Chayan Bhattacharjee from the Congress party and Amitabha Datta representing the CPI(M)-led Left Front. Additionally, candidates from Amra Bangali, SUCI, and an Independent aspirant are also in the fray, further diversifying the contest.
To ensure a free, fair, and transparent voting process, election authorities, in coordination with state police forces, have deployed comprehensive security measures across the constituency. The Dharmanagar seat, which shares borders with Assam and Mizoram, is considered sensitive due to its geographical location, prompting heightened vigilance.
In a notable effort toward inclusivity and representation, 11 of the 55 polling stations are being managed entirely by women personnel. Furthermore, two polling stations each are operated by differently-abled staff and youth teams, showcasing a progressive approach toward democratic participation. These initiatives highlight the Election Commission’s commitment to inclusiveness and equal opportunity in the electoral process.
Historically, the Dharmanagar Assembly constituency has witnessed a political tug-of-war between the BJP and the Congress since 2008, with the CPI(M) last securing victory in 2003. The current by-election has gained added significance due to the absence of a pre-poll alliance between the Congress and the Left Front, who had previously collaborated during the 2023 Tripura Assembly elections. Their decision to contest separately this time has reshaped the political dynamics and intensified the competition.
The by-election was necessitated following the demise of sitting MLA and Tripura Assembly Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen, who passed away on December 26, 2025, at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness. Sen was a prominent political figure who represented the Dharmanagar constituency four times. He was first elected as a Congress candidate in 2008 and 2013, and later switched to the BJP, winning again in 2018 and 2023.
In the 2023 Assembly elections, Congress candidate Chayan Bhattacharjee, backed by Left parties, narrowly lost to Biswa Bandhu Sen by a margin of just 956 votes. This close result has made the current by-election even more crucial, as parties aim to consolidate their support bases and secure a decisive mandate.
| Also Read: Tripura election heats up as Saha targets Tipra Motha |
The month-long campaign for the by-election concluded earlier this week, with political parties engaging in intense outreach efforts to attract voters. Key issues such as development, infrastructure, employment, and regional connectivity dominated campaign narratives.
The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, and the results are expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape of Tripura. As voting continues peacefully, all eyes remain on Dharmanagar, where voters are shaping the future of their constituency through the ballot.
