The upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections are expected to have significantly fewer phases compared to the previous polls in 2016 and 2021. The Election Commission of India may decide on this proposal during a crucial meeting on January 5, attended by the West Bengal CEO, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, and other key officials. Suggestions include conducting the elections in a single phase or a maximum of two phases, aiming to streamline the process.
In 2021, the West Bengal Assembly elections spanned eight phases, while in 2016, they were held over six phases. Opposition parties have historically favored multi-phase elections, whereas the ruling Trinamool Congress has opposed them. The potential shift to a single-phase or two-phase election in 2026 is seen to have both advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is the prevention of outsider mobilization, but it would require a larger deployment of Central Armed Police Force.
The final voters’ list in West Bengal is set to be published on February 14 next year, following the training of 4,600 micro-observers for claims and objections on the draft list. These micro-observers, mainly from Central government staff or public sector employees, will play a crucial role in the electoral process. Subsequently, the Election Commission will announce the dates for the crucial Assembly elections in the state.
