West Bengal Phase 2 voting began today morning across 142 constituencies spread over seven districts, marking the final leg of one of the most fiercely contested state assembly elections in recent memory. Voter turnout had already touched 18.39% by 9 AM, with Purba Bardhaman recording the highest early polling at 20.86%, signalling strong voter enthusiasm on the ground.
As reported by India TV News today, the Election Commission of India has deployed over 350,000 security personnel across the state to ensure peaceful polling. The NIA has been deployed during a state election for the first time ever, reflecting how seriously authorities are treating the law and order situation. In Kolkata alone, nearly 35,000 security forces are stationed across key locations.
The total number of candidates whose fate will be decided today stands at 1,448, including 1,228 men and 220 women, contesting across 142 seats. 142 general observers and 95 police observers have been appointed by the Election Commission to monitor proceedings closely.
The most watched contest of the entire West Bengal Phase 2 voting day is without doubt Bhabanipur. This is Mamata Banerjee’s home constituency and arguably the most politically symbolic seat in the state. She is being directly challenged by Suvendu Adhikari, her former aide and now BJP’s most prominent face in Bengal and widely seen as the saffron party’s chief ministerial candidate if BJP manages a historic win. A loss here for Mamata would carry consequences far beyond a single seat.
In Phase 1 held on April 23, West Bengal recorded a striking voter turnout of 93.19% across 152 constituencies, setting very high expectations for today’s participation as well. The first phase covered more rural and northern Bengal constituencies, while today’s phase covers TMC’s traditional stronghold territories including Kolkata, Howrah, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, Hooghly and Purba Bardhaman.
BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari expressed confidence before voting began, saying his party will secure a full majority in the state. TMC on the other hand is counting on its 15 years of governance, welfare schemes, and Mamata Banerjee’s personal popularity to retain power. Both parties have mounted aggressive campaigns in the final days, with multiple rallies addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee herself.
An EVM glitch was reported in parts of Howrah early this morning, briefly sparking chaos before being resolved by election officials. The counting of votes for both phases will take place on May 4, 2026, when the political future of West Bengal for the next five years will finally be determined.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- West Bengal Phase 2 voting underway across 142 constituencies in 7 districts today April 29, 2026
- Early turnout hits 18.39% by 9 AM, Purba Bardhaman leads with 20.86%
- Over 350,000 security personnel deployed statewide, NIA deployed in a state election for the very first time
- Bhabanipur is the most watched seat, with Mamata Banerjee facing a direct challenge from Suvendu Adhikari
FAQ
- Q. When is West Bengal Phase 2 voting happening?
West Bengal Phase 2 voting is taking place today on April 29, 2026 across 142 constituencies. - Q. When will West Bengal election results be declared?
Vote counting for both phases will take place on May 4, 2026. - Q. Which is the most important seat in West Bengal Phase 2?
Bhabanipur is the hottest seat, where Mamata Banerjee is contesting against Suvendu Adhikari of BJP. - Q. How many candidates are contesting in West Bengal Phase 2?
A total of 1,448 candidates including 1,228 men and 220 women are contesting in Phase 2.
