Ballot battle begins: Bengal votes in two phases this April

West Bengal is set for a high-stakes political showdown as the state heads to the polls in April 2026. The elections will decide the fate of 294 assembly seats, with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) seeking another term, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aiming to expand its gains, and the Left-Congress alliance hoping for a revival.  

Election Schedule  
The Election Commission confirmed that polling will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 will be held on April 23, while Phase 2 will take place on April 29. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, 2026. Notifications for the two phases will be issued on March 30 and April 2 respectively.  

Political Context  
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s TMC will defend its majority, banking on welfare schemes and grassroots networks. The BJP, buoyed by its performance in 2021, is targeting northern and western districts. Meanwhile, the Left-Congress alliance is attempting to consolidate anti-incumbency sentiment and regain lost ground.  

Electoral Snapshot  

• Two-phase polling on April 23 and April 29  
• Counting scheduled for May 4, 2026  
• Total constituencies: 294  
• Majority mark: 148 seats  
• TMC vs BJP vs Left-Congress alliance  
• Notifications issued on March 30 and April 2  

Future Outlook  
Analysts expect a three-way contest with voter turnout, youth participation, and rural-urban divides playing decisive roles. The elections are likely to shape Bengal’s political trajectory for the next five years, making April a crucial month for the state’s future.  

Sources: The Indian Express, The Hindu, Moneycontrol, Oneindia