Big Relief for Bengal Voters: EC Approves 4,660 New Auxiliary Polling Stations Ahead of Elections
Kolkata, April 4, 2026 — In a major administrative move to ensure smooth and hassle-free voting, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially approved the creation of 4,660 auxiliary polling stations across West Bengal ahead of the highly anticipated state assembly elections.
The decision comes as part of the Commission’s active efforts to facilitate voters and manage heavy crowd turnout at booths with exceptionally high registered electorates.
Tackling the Voter Rush
According to the official communication released by the Election Commission, the new auxiliary polling stations will specifically be set up in areas where the number of registered voters at a single existing booth has exceeded the 2,200 mark. By splitting the voter load, the EC aims to drastically reduce wait times and ensure that citizens can cast their ballots comfortably and securely.
In addition to the new auxiliary booths, the Commission has also approved the relocation and shifting of 321 existing polling stations to improve accessibility and convenience for the local electorate.
With these massive additions and adjustments, the total number of designated polling stations—including the newly approved auxiliary units—has now reached a staggering 85,379 across West Bengal.
EC Demands Wide Publicity
To ensure that the changes do not cause last-minute confusion on voting day, the Election Commission has officially written a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal. The Commission has issued strict directives to the state election machinery to conduct widespread publicity campaigns, ensuring that voters are fully informed about the exact locations of the newly set up auxiliary booths and the shifted polling stations.
Voting Dates Approaching
The administrative reshuffle comes just weeks before the state heads to the polls. The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be held in two crucial phases this year.
The first phase of voting will commence on April 23, followed by the second and final phase of polling on April 29. With the electoral battle lines drawn and voter facilitation now prioritized, all eyes remain on Bengal as the state prepares for a massive democratic exercise.