Election Commission of India Confirms 2,926 Candidates for West Bengal Assembly Elections
Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has announced that 2,926 candidates are contesting in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, set for April 29. This follows the completion of the nomination withdrawal process, ensuring a competitive electoral environment.
Key Takeaways
2,926 candidates contesting in West Bengal Assembly elections.
Voting is set for April 29 .
Information accessible via the ECINet App .
Ballot papers to include photographs of candidates.
Significant police reshuffle ahead of elections.
New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has revealed that there are 2,926 candidates vying for seats in the West Bengal Assembly elections following the conclusion of the nomination withdrawal phase.
The elections for West Bengal (Phase-II) are set for April 29, with the final date for submitting nominations being April 9 and the scrutiny process taking place on April 10. Candidates had until 3:00 p.m. on April 13 to retract their nominations.
After the withdrawal window closed, the total candidate count was confirmed. In Phase-I of the elections, which covers 152 Assembly Constituencies, there are 1,478 candidates contesting, while Phase-II includes 142 constituencies with 1,448 candidates. This totals 2,926 candidates across both electoral phases.
The Commission has indicated that the Returning Officers (ROs) will release the final list of candidates in the Official Gazette as stipulated by the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.
All nomination documents, along with those related to scrutiny and withdrawals, will be securely sealed and preserved in official custody for each constituency.
Furthermore, the ECI has made it easier for the public to learn about candidates via the ECINet App, specifically in the 'Know Your Candidate' section. This resource provides information on candidates' educational backgrounds, any criminal records, property details, liabilities, and downloadable affidavits.
In a move aimed at enhancing voter experience, the ECI has ensured that the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) ballot papers will display colored photographs of the candidates alongside their names, serial numbers, and party symbols in large, legible fonts.
On another note, the ECI initiated a significant reshuffle within the state police on April 11, transferring 30 officers from various ranks, including Deputy Inspector General (DIG) to inspector level.
Notable adjustments include the replacement of Rupesh Kumar, who was serving as Joint Commissioner (Crime) of Kolkata Police, with Soma Das Mitra, previously a DIG in the Criminal Investigation Department. Additionally, Joint Commissioner (Headquarters) Miraj Khalid has been succeeded by Sudip Sarkar, who was formerly the DIG (Personnel) in West Bengal Police.
Earlier, on March 15, the ECI had announced the timeline for the General Elections for the Legislative Assemblies in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, including bye-elections across six states.
Point of View
The recent announcement from the Election Commission of India regarding the 2,926 candidates for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections reflects a vibrant democratic process. With the electoral date approaching, public interest is expected to surge, and transparency in candidate information will play a vital role in informed voting.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total number of candidates for the West Bengal Assembly elections?
A total of 2,926 candidates are contesting for the West Bengal Assembly elections.
When will the West Bengal Assembly elections take place?
The elections are scheduled for April 29.
How can voters access information about candidates?
Voters can access detailed candidate information through the ECINet App in the 'Know Your Candidate' section.
What changes were made to the ballot papers?
The ballot papers will feature colored photographs of candidates along with their names, serial numbers, and party symbols in large fonts.
What significant police reshuffle occurred regarding the elections?
A reshuffle involving 30 officers from various ranks of the West Bengal Police was ordered by the ECI.
