West Bengal Assembly Elections Likely in Two Phases to Curb Violence

Agencies, March 12, 2026, Kolkata: The upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections are likely to be conducted in two phases next month, according to a poll official on Thursday. However, the final decision is yet to be taken by the Election Commission.

During a recent meeting in Kolkata with Gyanesh Kumar, most political parties in the state—except the ruling All India Trinamool Congress—requested that the elections be held in one or two phases. Senior officials, including representatives from the security forces, also made similar recommendations.

A poll official explained the reasoning behind the proposal: “Conducting assembly elections in West Bengal in two phases would help curb poll-related violence, as miscreants would not have time to move between areas to create disturbances. This factor will be considered before the final decision is taken.”

The official noted that although single-phase elections are not impossible, the likelihood remains low this time due to concerns about maintaining peace and order.

As a comparison, the 2024 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly election for the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly was conducted in a single phase. However, the official indicated that West Bengal’s political dynamics may require a different approach.

“But this time, it is very unlikely,” the officer said regarding the possibility of single-phase polling.

Earlier, while addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stressed that the Election Commission’s top priority is to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections in the state.

“We have reviewed the law and order situation in the state, and the entire administration, led by the chief secretary, DGP, CPs, and SPs, has assured the commission that the elections will remain free of violence and intimidation,” Kumar said.

He further added that officials have been directed to strictly enforce the rule of law “without fear or favour.”

Preparations for the assembly polls are taking place amid a charged political atmosphere in the state. Recently, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee staged a dharna in protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, highlighting ongoing political tensions ahead of the elections.

As West Bengal prepares for another crucial electoral contest, the Election Commission continues to evaluate the situation to ensure that the voting process remains peaceful, transparent, and secure for all citizens.