The EC’s schedule gives the ruling alliance an edge in Phase 1 constituencies, but analysts note the opposition’s strength in phases 4 and 5 could determine the final outcome.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a two-phase schedule for the West Bengal Assembly elections in 2026, not six phases. The polling will be held on April 23 and April 29, with results declared on May 4.
- Phase 1 (April 23): Covers 152 assembly constituencies in north Bengal and western border districts (e.g., Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling), regions where the BJP performed strongly in recent elections.
- Phase 2 (April 29): Covers 142 constituencies in central and southern Bengal, including Kolkata, where the TMC has strongholds.
Who Has the Advantage?
- BJP: Likely to benefit from the two-phase model, as it allows focused campaigning in BJP-leaning northern and western regions during Phase 1, potentially consolidating support before the second phase.
- TMC: Faces a challenge in maintaining momentum across two separate phases, especially in the politically sensitive Kolkata region. The party has criticized the schedule as politically motivated, arguing that the 2021 elections were held in eight phases despite the pandemic, implying the current two-phase model favors the BJP.
The ECI stated that the phased approach is based on logistical and security considerations, particularly given the state’s large electorate and past instances of election-related violence. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is now in force across West Bengal
