As West Bengal prepares for the announcement of it’s Assembly elections results, the Election Commission of India has strengthened it’s arrangements across the state to ensure a peaceful and transparent counting process.
77 additional police observers and 165 counting personnel have been assigned to ensure a peaceful and transparent counting process.
These observers will be stationed at various counting centers to closely monitor proceedings and ensure that all rules and protocols are strictly followed.
"Additional counting observers have been deployed in assembly constituencies having more than one counting hall," the EC official said, adding that police observers will oversee law and order arrangements around counting centres.
The observers have been appointed under the powers vested in the commission by Article 324 of the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The EC also announced tighter access control measures at counting centres, mandating entry only through QR code based photo identity cards issued via its ECINet system.
“Entry into counting centres shall be strictly based on QR code-based photo IDs issued by the returning officers," the official said.
The counting observers will supervise the tabulation of votes and ensure transparency at every stage, while the police observers will oversee law and order arrangements. Their role will include coordinating with local authorities to respond quickly to any disturbances or security concerns.
The counting of votes for the 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections is scheduled to take place on May 4, 2026. With political tensions often running high during the result declarations, the Commission’s latest move is aimed at preventing any irregularities and maintaining strict vigilance.
Officials indicated that the decision to deploy additional personnel reflects the Commission’s focus on conducting a free, fair, and credible election process. West Bengal has witnessed extensive monitoring and heavy security deployment throughout the polling phases, and similar caution is being maintained for counting day.
With all preparations in place, attention now turns to May 4, when the results will determine the next government in the state.
Bengal Assembly results under tight watch as EC boosts observer strength
77 additional police observers and 165 counting personnel have been assigned to ensure a peaceful and transparent counting process.
The Gist — Quick Take
As West Bengal prepares for the announcement of it’s Assembly elections results, the Election Commission of India has strengthened it’s arrangements across the state to ensure a peaceful and transparent counting process.
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"Bengal Assembly results under tight watch as EC boosts observer strength "
— Reported by Soonakshi Ghosh
