West Bengal Elections: Counting Centres Cut to 87
Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has announced a reduction in counting centres for the upcoming West Bengal elections. With significant numbers in various districts, this decision comes amidst extensive drives against property defacement and illegal political advertisements.
Key Takeaways
Counting centres for West Bengal elections decreased to **87**.
Highest concentration in **South 24 Parganas** with **12 centres**. **18,38,572** cases of property defacement removed.
Total seizures valued at **Rs 427 crore** reported.
District Grievance Committees set up for public concerns.
Kolkata, April 17 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) revealed on Friday that the total number of counting centres for the upcoming two-phase elections in West Bengal has been decreased to 87.
During the 2016 state assembly elections, there were 90 counting centres, which increased to 108 in 2021. This year's count represents a reduction based on a notification from the Commission issued on Friday afternoon.
Among the 87 counting locations, South 24 Parganas will have the highest number with 12 centres, followed by North 24 Parganas with 8 and 6 in Hooghly. The least number of centres, with only one each, will be allocated to Kalimpong, Alipurduar, and Jhargram.
The two-phase voting in West Bengal is scheduled for April 23 and April 29, with results to be announced on May 4.
Additionally, the Commission reported that as of 9 p.m. on Tuesday, a total of 18,38,572 cases of property defacement had been addressed.
Out of these, 15,80,892 were related to public property, while the remainder, 2,25,170, pertained to private property defacements.
Efforts to eradicate unauthorized political advertisements are in full swing. Recent reports indicate that comprehensive removal of defaced public and private properties has been accomplished throughout all districts, as confirmed by District Election Officers.
Moreover, the Commission noted that the value of confiscated items in West Bengal, as a result of these drives, amounts to Rs 427 crore. This includes Rs 21 crore in cash, Rs 81 crore in liquor, Rs 100 crore in drugs and narcotics, Rs 54 crore in precious metals, and Rs 172 crore in various freebies.
The Commission attributed these significant seizures to the 2,728 flying squad teams (FSTs) and 3,142 static surveillance teams (SSTs) operating across West Bengal.
Furthermore, the Commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that ordinary citizens experience no inconvenience or harassment during the enforcement of these directives. To address any related grievances, District Grievance Committees have been established, as outlined in the press note.
Point of View
The reduction in counting centres represents a strategic adjustment by the Election Commission to streamline the electoral process in West Bengal. While this may raise concerns about accessibility and transparency, it also indicates a focused approach to managing resources effectively during the elections.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the counting centres reduced in West Bengal?
The Election Commission of India decided to reduce the counting centres from 90 to 87 to streamline the electoral process for the upcoming elections.
When will the counting of votes take place?
The counting of votes will be conducted on May 4, following the two-phase polling on April 23 and April 29.
What measures are being taken against property defacement?
Extensive drives are ongoing to remove unauthorized political advertisements, with **over 18 lakh cases** of property defacement addressed across the state.
What is the value of seizures made during the election drive?
The total value of seizures in West Bengal has reached **Rs 427 crore**, including cash, liquor, drugs, and other illegal items.
How are citizens' grievances addressed during the election process?
District Grievance Committees have been established to ensure that any citizen grievances related to election enforcement are properly addressed.
