West Bengal is preparing for Phase 2 of the Assembly Elections 2026, which will be held on April 29, 2026. This phase is considered crucial as it covers a large number of constituencies, including major urban centres like Kolkata and surrounding districts.
With polling day approaching, the state administration has put detailed arrangements in place, including security deployment, voter facilitation measures, and a full public holiday in the affected areas.
Schools, colleges, government offices, and several private organisations will remain closed to ensure smooth voting. At the same time, essential services such as healthcare and transport will continue to operate normally so that daily life is not disrupted.
West Bengal Assembly Elections Phase 2 2026: Election Date
The second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 is scheduled for April 29, 2026. This phase will cover 142 constituencies across multiple districts of the state. These include both densely populated urban areas and semi-urban regions, making this one of the most important phases of the election.
The Election Commission has intensified preparations to ensure free, fair, and peaceful polling, with special focus on sensitive booths and high-turnout zones. Security forces have also been deployed in large numbers across key locations.
West Bengal Phase 2 Assembly Elections 2026: Voting Time
Voting in Phase 2 of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 will begin at 7:00 AM and continue till 6:00 PM on April 29, 2026, across all designated polling stations. Voters are encouraged to reach their respective booths early to avoid long queues during peak hours, especially in urban areas like Kolkata, where voter turnout is expected to be high.
Election officials will be present at all polling booths to assist voters, verify identities, and ensure the smooth conduct of voting. Strict security arrangements will remain in place throughout the day, and surveillance systems will monitor sensitive polling stations to maintain law and order.
Are Schools Open or Closed in West Bengal Today (April 29)?
All schools located within the constituencies going to the polls will remain closed on April 29, 2026. The closure applies to both government and private schools. The decision has been taken by the state administration to ensure that students, teachers, and school staff can participate in the voting process without any disruption.
The holiday also helps reduce traffic congestion near polling areas and allows authorities to manage election logistics more efficiently. Regular classes are expected to resume the next working day following the election.
Are Colleges Open or Closed in West Bengal Today (April 29)?
Colleges and universities in all polling constituencies will also remain closed for the day. This includes government colleges, private institutions, and technical universities located in Phase 2 areas.
The closure ensures that students and academic staff are able to exercise their voting rights without academic or administrative pressure. Institutions will resume normal academic schedules after the polling day, once the election process is completed in the respective regions.
Is There a Public Holiday in West Bengal Today (April 29)?
Yes, the state government has officially declared April 29, 2026, as a public holiday in all areas where Phase 2 voting will take place. This applies to government offices, educational institutions, and most workplaces within the polling constituencies.
The purpose of the holiday is to ensure maximum voter participation and smooth election management. By reducing workplace obligations, the government aims to allow citizens to cast their votes comfortably and without time constraints.
What All Will Be Open on April 29 in West Bengal?
Despite the widespread closures, essential services will continue to operate normally. These include:
- Hospitals and healthcare centres
- Pharmacies and medical stores
- Emergency services
- Public transport, including buses, metro, and taxis
- Electricity, water supply, and municipal services
Authorities have confirmed that all critical services will remain active to avoid public inconvenience.
What All Will Be Closed on April 29 in West Bengal?
The following will remain closed in polling constituencies on April 29:
- Schools and colleges
- Government offices
- Banks and financial institutions
- Most private offices (depending on local policies)
This shutdown ensures that voters can participate freely without work or academic pressure.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Result Date
The counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 will take place after all phases of polling are completed. The official result date is May 4, 2026, when counting will begin for all 294 Assembly seats across the state.
Election results are expected to be announced throughout the day, with clear trends emerging by afternoon. The outcome is likely to be declared by the evening, depending on the speed of counting and verification. The Election Commission aims to complete the entire process within a few days after counting begins.