Election Commission Confirms Zero Repolling for Bengal Phase 1
Kolkata, April 25, 2026 — In a major testament to the security arrangements and the smooth functioning of the electoral process, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially announced that no repolling has been recommended for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections.
This significant update comes as a relief to the administration and voters alike, signaling a largely peaceful and successful democratic exercise in a state that has historically been marred by poll-related violence.
Zero Disruptions Across 44,000+ Booths
The first phase of the high-stakes election, which took place on Thursday, April 23, saw voting across 152 assembly constituencies spread over 16 districts.
According to the official statement from the Election Commission, the polling process was completed without any major disruptions, booth capturing, or severe irregularities that would warrant a fresh round of voting. The ECI confirmed that out of the staggering 44,376 polling stations utilized during Phase 1, not a single booth requires a repoll.
The successful execution of the polls is largely being credited to the massive deployment of over 2,400 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and the Election Commission’s “zero tolerance” policy, which included 100% webcasting and AI-backed surveillance systems to monitor overcrowding and potential booth jamming.
A Record Turnout
Thursday’s voting saw an overwhelming participation from the electorate. Early data indicates a massive voter turnout, reflecting the high stakes and intense campaigning by both the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
With Phase 1 concluding on a peaceful note, the political machinery and the Election Commission are now shifting their entire focus to the second and final phase of the assembly elections. The remaining 142 constituencies, primarily in and around the Kolkata region, are scheduled to cast their ballots on April 29. The final counting of the votes is slated for May 4.
