West Bengal Election 2026 Voting Day: Dos And Don’ts For Voters At Polling Booths

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 10:44 PM IST

Election officials have urged voters to reach their designated booths on time and carry valid identification documents to avoid delays.

A woman electoral officer demonstrates the functioning of an electronic voting machine and voter verifiable paper audit trail during a training programme. (PTI)

Polling for the West Bengal Assembly elections 2026 will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with authorities focusing on ensuring smooth and secure conduct of voting across the state.

The counting of votes will take place on May 4. With millions expected to participatevoters are being advised to follow key guidelines at polling stations.

According to Election Commission data, over 3.6 crore electors across 16 districts will vote in the first phase alone. Murshidabad has the highest number of voters, followed by Purba and Paschim Medinipur. A total of 2,926 candidates are in the fray across both phaseswith 152 constituencies voting in Phase I and 142 in Phase II.

Polling Timings and Basic Preparation

Polling stations across West Bengal will remain open from 7 am to 6 pm. Election officials have urged voters to reach their designated booths on time and carry valid identification documents to avoid delays. While voter information slips may be helpful, they are not mandatory for casting a vote.

ALSO READ: BJP Central Leadership Intensifies Bengal Push Ahead Of Phase 1 Of Polls: Amit Shah Leads With 30 Rallies

Essential Documents for Voting

• Voter ID card (EPIC) issued by the Election Commission of India
• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Passport
• Driving licence
• Bank or post office passbook with photograph
• Pension documents with photograph
• Government service identity cards
• NPR smart cards
• Health insurance smart cards issued by the Ministry of Labour

Dos for Voters

• Confirm your polling booth and ensure your name is on the electoral roll
• Carry your voter slip and a valid ID for smooth verification
• Read about contesting candidates and their manifestos before voting
• Stand in queue and follow polling station instructions
• Get your finger inked before casting your vote
• Verify your vote on the VVPAT machine after using the EVM

ALSO READ: West Bengal 2026 Assembly Elections: How To Check Your Name In Voter List

Don’ts at Polling Booths

• Do not wear or carry any political party symbols or promotional material
• Do not carry or use mobile phones inside polling booths
• Do not take photographs or videos during voting
• Do not accept money or gifts from political representatives
• Do not engage in impersonation, which is a punishable offence

What to Carry and What to Avoid

You can carry:

• Water bottle and basic essentials, especially if queues are expected
• Necessary items for elderly or differently-abled voters, with facilities like ramps available at booths

You must avoid carrying:

• Sharp objects such as knives
• Lighters or flammable items
• Other restricted items as per polling station rules
• Mobile phones (must be switched off or left outside, depending on booth guidelines)

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