Voting for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election began April 29, 2026, across 142 constituencies [1].

This phase represents a critical step in determining the control of the state legislature, as the electorate decides the composition of the 294-member assembly [3]. The outcome will shape the political trajectory of West Bengal, which has seen intense competition between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of the TMC visited polling booths in Bhabanipur, a high-profile constituency in Kolkata [1]. The second phase follows the first round of voting held on April 23, 2026 [2].

Engagement remained high leading into this stage of the process. Voter turnout during the first phase reached 93.2% [1]. Election officials and party representatives monitored the 142 constituencies to ensure the process remained orderly [1].

Amid the voting, political tensions surfaced through public statements. S. Abhishek said, "Rafale used against Bengal" [1]. The remark highlights the volatile nature of the campaign as parties vie for dominance in the state.

With the completion of these two phases, the state moves closer to the final tally of the 294 seats [3]. The electoral schedule remains the primary focus for the state's administration and security forces as they manage the transition from polling to the counting of results.

“Voting for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election began April 29, 2026, across 142 constituencies.”

The high voter turnout from the first phase suggests a deeply polarized and engaged electorate. By covering 142 constituencies in the second phase, the election now encompasses a significant portion of the state's legislative map. The focus on Bhabanipur and the rhetoric surrounding national defense assets like the Rafale indicate that the local contest is being heavily influenced by both regional identity and national political narratives.