April 30, 2026

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Held in Two Phases; Election Commission Emphasizes Security and Transparency

The 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 were conducted in two phases across all 294 constituencies, with the Election Commission of India overseeing polling arrangements, security deployment, and electoral procedures.

Polling took place on April 23 and April 29. According to officials, voter turnout remained high across both phases, with stronger participation reported in several rural areas, while urban regions recorded relatively moderate turnout.

The election process began earlier with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Commission stated that the exercise aimed to update voter data by removing duplicate or ineligible entries and adding new voters. However, some political parties and individuals raised concerns regarding deletion or relocation of names. In response, officials conducted verification drives, set up helplines, and allowed claims and objections to address grievances.

Security arrangements were a key focus during polling. Central Armed Police Forces, along with state police, were deployed across sensitive locations. Measures such as route marches, area monitoring, and quick response teams were implemented to maintain order. Webcasting, CCTV monitoring, and micro-observers were also used in selected polling stations.

The Election Commission stated that it acted on complaints received during polling, including ordering inquiries and repolling in specific booths where required. Officials also conducted mock polls and maintained standard procedures related to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to ensure transparency.

Polling days were largely peaceful, though some isolated incidents and technical issues were reported in certain areas. Authorities stated that most concerns were addressed during the course of the day.

With polling now completed, attention has shifted to the counting of votes, which is scheduled as per the Commission’s timeline.

Tuhin Subhra Sarkar, Indian Navy (Retd)

TUHIN SUBHRA SARKAR

District Reporter

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