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2,926 Candidates in Fray for High-Stakes West Bengal Assembly Polls

The Election Commission of India has finalized a list of 2,926 candidates contesting the West Bengal Assembly elections across two phases. Polling is scheduled for April 23 and 29, with the results to be declared on May 4. The election features a major clash between the incumbent Trinamool Congress and the BJP, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah issuing strong warnings to TMC workers. Campaign rhetoric has intensified, with Shah criticizing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's governance and statements.

Key Points: West Bengal Polls: 2,926 Candidates, Key Dates & Campaign Clash

  • 2,926 total candidates
  • Polling on April 23 & 29
  • BJP vs TMC high-voltage clash
  • Amit Shah's warning to TMC
  • EVMs with candidate photos
2 min read

ECI announces 2,926 candidates in fray for West Bengal assembly polls

ECI announces 2,926 candidates for WB polls in two phases. Amit Shah warns TMC, Mamata Banerjee defends record. Results on May 4.

"I am warning all the goons of TMC not to step out of their homes; otherwise, after 5 May, you're done for. - Amit Shah"

Kolkata, April 14

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday announced that a total of 2,926 candidates are in the fray for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, as per the official press note.

Polling will be held in two phases in West Bengal on April 23 and 29, and the results of the assembly polls will be announced on May 4.

After the final list was prepared, 1,478 candidates are contesting in Phase I across 152 constituencies, while 1,448 candidates are in the race for Phase II covering 142 constituencies.

According to a press note released on Tuesday, the last date for filing nominations for West Bengal (Phase II) was April 9. The scrutiny of nominations took place on April 10, and candidates were allowed to withdraw their nominations until April 13, 3:00 PM.

The Election Commission has directed Returning Officers to publish the final list of candidates in the official gazette. They have also been instructed to securely store all election-related documents, including nomination papers, in sealed envelopes.

Additionally, ballot papers for EVMs will include coloured photographs of candidates along with key details like serial number and symbol to make it easier for voters to identify them.

West Bengal will witness a high-voltage clash between the incumbent TMC, looking for a fourth consecutive term, while the BJP is aiming to form a government after making a mark in the last polls

A day earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah slammed the Trinamool Congress government over infiltration and said a BJP government in West Bengal will hand over the required land to complete fencing with Bangladesh.

Addressing rallies in the poll-bound state, he also warned "goons of TMC not to step out of their homes" during voting.

"I am warning all the goons of TMC not to step out of their homes; otherwise, after 5 May, you're done for," he said.

"I was listening to a speech by Didi (West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee). She was attempting to intimidate the majority community of this region. She claimed that if the TMC ceases to exist, the very existence of the majority community would be at stake. We have been living here for centuries. Who are you to try and intimidate us? Riots broke out in Murshidabad under your rule. Where were you then?" he asked.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The detail about coloured photographs on the ballot papers is a great move by the ECI. It will really help voters, especially in rural areas, to correctly identify their candidate. Small steps for better electoral integrity.
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Priyanka N
The language used by leaders from both sides is concerning. "Goons" and talk of intimidation doesn't set a good tone for a democratic festival. We need debates on policies, not threats. As a voter, I want to hear about jobs, healthcare, and education.
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Aman W
Border fencing is a national security issue, not just an election talking point. It's been pending for too long. Whoever comes to power must complete it on priority. Jai Hind.
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Kavya N
So many candidates, but will it lead to a fractured mandate? Hope the people vote wisely for a stable government. Bengal needs peace and progress after all the political turmoil of the last few years.
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Michael C
The instructions to securely store all election documents is crucial. Transparency in the process builds public trust. The ECI seems to be taking its job seriously, which is good for the health of Indian democracy.

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