EC calls high-level Kolkata meet to fine-tune security and logistics ahead of Phase 2 Bengal polls

The Election Commission of India is set to convene a crucial coordination meeting in Kolkata on Sunday as preparations intensify for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.

The meeting, to be held at Dhana Dhanya Auditorium, comes just three days ahead of polling scheduled for April 29. Senior officials said the objective is to review readiness across key election districts and streamline coordination among agencies involved in conducting the polls.

Top officials, including the Kolkata Police Commissioner, district election officers from Kolkata Uttar, Kolkata Dakshin and South 24 Parganas, along with general, police and expenditure observers appointed by the poll panel, will take part in the discussions. Commanders of central armed police forces and returning officers from constituencies in the Kolkata region are also expected to attend.

The review will primarily focus on deployment of security forces, identification of vulnerable pockets, coordination between civil and police administration, and the preparedness of polling personnel. Authorities aim to ensure that all logistical and security arrangements are firmly in place before voting day.

The meeting gains importance in light of the strong voter participation in the first phase held on April 23, which saw a turnout exceeding 93 percent across 152 constituencies in 16 districts.

The Election Commission has been conducting similar reviews across the state as part of its broader effort to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner.