Phase 2 voting for the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 began at 7 a.m. across 142 constituencies [1, 4].
This stage of the election is critical as it determines the legislative makeup of the state for the 2026 term. The results will influence the balance of power between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in key regional strongholds.
Approximately 3.22 crore voters [2] are expected to cast their ballots to decide the fate of 1,448 candidates [2]. Polling is taking place across eight districts, utilizing more than 41,000 polling stations [5].
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (TMC) visited voting booths in Bhabanipur as the process unfolded [6]. The election features high-profile contests, including the rivalry between Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) in areas such as Nandigram and Bhabanipur [6, 7].
Security forces have been deployed to maintain order at the polls. Reports indicate that the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) detained two persons during the voting process [5].
The election commission is overseeing the proceedings to ensure a fair transition of power. The scale of the operation involves massive logistical coordination across the 142 constituencies [1].
“3.22 crore voters to decide the fate of 1,448 candidates”
The Phase 2 elections serve as a primary indicator of voter sentiment toward the current administration's performance and the BJP's ability to make inroads in West Bengal. With a high number of candidates and a massive electorate, the outcome in these 142 constituencies will likely dictate the momentum for the final phases of the assembly election.
