What Changes Are Coming to West Bengal's Election Process? ECI's New Strategy Unveiled!

The Election Commission of India is implementing a new strategy for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections by appointing a Central observer for each of the 294 constituencies. This move aims to address concerns over pre-poll violence and ensure a smoother nomination process. With 1,444 officers currently in training, the ECI is focused on enhancing security and oversight during the elections. The final voters' list will be published soon, and polling dates are expected to be announced after the Holi festival. This election may also be conducted in fewer phases than before, with a recommendation for a single-phase poll.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 10:56 IST

Election Commission's New Approach for West Bengal

Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced plans to assign a Central observer to each of the 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal to monitor the pre-poll nomination process.

Sources from the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office in West Bengal revealed that these observers will be either Central government officials or representatives from other states.

Currently, 1,444 officers are receiving training from the ECI, and once completed, they will be deployed to manage various election-related tasks across different states and Union Territories. Out of these, 294 will specifically focus on the Assembly constituencies in West Bengal.

The ECI has expressed concern over the incidents of violence reported during previous elections, particularly during the nomination phase.

Most complaints have involved voter intimidation and threats directed at opposition party members and their polling agents. There have also been issues regarding the underutilization of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel assigned for pre-poll security.

To tackle these issues, the Commission has decided to appoint one Central observer for each constituency during the pre-poll phase, as stated by an insider from the CEO's office.

These observers will be granted authority by the ECI as soon as the polling dates are announced, along with the enforcement of the model code of conduct.

The final voters' list for West Bengal will be published, excluding cases with 'logical discrepancies' that are pending judicial review. Additional lists will be released as judicial processes progress.

The ECI is anticipated to reveal the polling dates shortly after the Holi festival on March 4. This election cycle may see fewer phases compared to previous elections.

The CEO's office has suggested a single-phase election this time, although the ultimate decision will rest with the ECI.