West Bengal Elections 2026 phase 2 voting begins: Check documents needed, how to vote and other important guidelines you need to know

West Bengal is going to vote today, April 29, and in the second phase, 142 constituencies are going to the polls. The voting has started from 7 am and will go on till 6 pm at designated polling stations. For today's election, all eyes are on Bhowanipore as the battle is pitted between CM Mamata Banerjee and BJP's Suvendu Adhikari.

Voters must note that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds in Kolkata and other districts of Bengal throughout the day. People are advised to carry umbrellas, stay hydrated, plan their travels and while heading to polling booths and stay alert for gusty winds during thunderstorms.

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West Bengal Elections 2026 Date and Time

Polling Dates: April 29, 2026, Wednesday

Polling Time: 7 am to 6 pm

Result Day: May 4, 2026

Documents you need to carry for Bengal elections

If you are a first-time voter, then you need to be aware about certain rules and guidelines related to polling day. Here are some key guidelines for you:

-It is mandatory for voters to carry valid identification documents such as Voter ID (EPIC), Aadhaar card or passport to the polling station.

-You should keep your EPIC number (Voter ID number) handy and can also download digital voter ID (E-EPIC) before going to vote.

-Entry without proper ID proof will not be allowed, so voters are advised to check their documents before leaving home.

What are the accepted ID proofs for voting?

Voter ID card (EPIC)
Aadhaar card
PAN card
Passport
Driving licence
Bank passbook with photo
Government or service ID

Voters are not required to carry a voter slip to the polling booth. But before you step out to vote, you should find your booth and make sure that your name is on the official voter list.

Once you reach the polling booth, press the button next to your chosen candidate on the EVM. You will hear a beep sound which confirms your vote. You’ll see the candidate slip briefly on VVPAT machine.

West Bengal elections 2026: Other important guidelines

At the polling booth, officials first verify the voter’s identity

Once verified, the voter’s index finger is marked with indelible ink

The vote is then cast using an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM)

The VVPAT system briefly displays a printed slip to confirm the selected choice

The entire process ensures that voting remains private and secure.

What's not allowed inside a polling booth?

No mobile phones or cameras inside the booth

No smoking, alcohol, or weapons allowed inside the polling booth

Not allowed to campaign within 100 metres of the polling station

Any form of intimidation or disturbance is punishable