West Bengal Elections 2026: Nearly 700,000 New Voters Added Ahead of Polling
Election Commission updates voter list but withholds detailed breakdown as polling dates approach
Just days before the West Bengal Assembly elections, the Election Commission has added around 700,000 new names to the state’s voter list, increasing the total electorate significantly. However, detailed information about these newly registered voters has not yet been made public.
According to a senior official, nearly 322,000 of these voters are expected to cast their ballots in the first phase of polling, while about 388,000 will vote in the second phase.
The Commission has not clarified how many of these additions are first time voters. It has also not shared any gender based data or a detailed breakdown of the new entries.
Officials further stated that the number of Form 6 applications received for inclusion in the voter list, along with the number of rejected applications, has not been disclosed. A senior Election Commission official explained that only overall figures have been released as per established norms, while detailed data is maintained separately and may be shared later if required.
With these additions, the total number of registered voters in West Bengal has reached 68,251,008. This figure could rise further depending on tribunal decisions regarding pending cases.
Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal held a virtual review meeting with senior police officials to assess election preparedness. He made it clear that any disturbance on polling day would not be tolerated.
Addressing police commissioners and superintendents ahead of the first phase on April 23, Agarwal instructed authorities to take swift and decisive action in case of any untoward incident. Sources present in the meeting said he warned that negligence in maintaining law and order could lead to strict action, including suspension of responsible officers.
He also directed police to act immediately if any weapons, ammunition, or explosive materials are found during the voting process. Agarwal emphasized that local police stations would be held accountable for any delay in response.
The Chief Electoral Officer also raised concerns over delays in arresting individuals accused of election related violence in previous polls. He instructed district authorities to identify habitual offenders and those with a history of election related crimes.
The West Bengal Assembly elections will be held in two phases. The first phase is scheduled for April 23, covering 152 constituencies, while the second phase will take place on April 29 across 142 seats.