New Delhi: The Election Commission of India has officially unveiled the schedule for the West Bengal Assembly elections, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced during a press conference that polling will be conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results set to be declared on May 4.
This streamlined two-phase approach contrasts sharply with the eight-phase marathon of the 2021 elections, reflecting the Commission’s efforts to balance logistical challenges with efficiency. West Bengal boasts 294 assembly seats and a massive electorate of 6.44 crore voters, including 3.28 crore men, 3.16 crore women, and 1,152 third-gender voters. Notably, first-time voters aged 18-19 number 5.23 lakh, while the 20-29 age group totals 1.31 crore, underscoring the youth bulge in the voter base.
Senior citizens above 85 years stand at 3.79 lakh, and 4.16 lakh voters are persons with disabilities, for whom special facilities will be provided at polling stations. Robust security measures and ample arrangements at polling booths have been promised to ensure a smooth process. Awareness campaigns on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are already underway to boost voter confidence.
The 2021 polls saw Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) dominate with 215 seats and nearly 48% vote share, solidifying its grip on power. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the main opposition with 77 seats, while traditional players like the Left Front and Congress were wiped out. This time, the Muslim voter bloc, constituting about 30% of the population and pivotal in 40-50 constituencies, could once again sway outcomes in districts like Murshidabad, Malda, and Birbhum.
As campaigns kick off, all eyes are on whether TMC can repeat its triumph or if BJP’s aggressive push will reshape Bengal’s political narrative. The coming weeks promise high-stakes drama in this eastern bastion.