The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the much-awaited schedule for the 2026 Assembly elections on March 15, 2026, covering four states — Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal — and one Union Territory (Puducherry). These polls will decide the fate of 824 assembly constituencies and involve a staggering 17.4 crore voters (roughly equivalent to the combined populations of several countries, such as Australia and Canada).
Important Dates & Voting Phases
In most regions, voting will be conducted in a single-phase (1-day) election. Only in West Bengal voting will be in two phases due to its size and security considerations. This is a sharp reduction from West Bengal’s 8 phases in 2021 (held during COVID).
Here’s a clear comparison:
| Region | Type | Seats | Voting Days/Phases | Polling Date(s) | Counting Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assam | State | 126 | 1 (Single phase) | April 9, 2026 | May 4, 2026 |
| Kerala | State | 140 | 1 (Single phase) | April 9, 2026 | May 4, 2026 |
| Puducherry | UT | 30 | 1 (Single phase) | April 9, 2026 | May 4, 2026 |
| Tamil Nadu | State | 234 | 1 (Single phase) | April 23, 2026 | May 4, 2026 |
| West Bengal | State | 294 | 2 phases | April 23 (Phase 1: 152 seats) April 29 (Phase 2: 142 seats) | May 4, 2026 |
Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry (the smallest) vote together on April 9 — a compact, single-day affair. Tamil Nadu follows on April 23. West Bengal spreads over two dates for better management. Uniform counting on May 4 ensures simultaneous results across all five.
The Model Code of Conduct is already in force (effective immediately after the announcement). Full schedule (including nomination and scrutiny dates) will be detailed in the official ECI gazette notification .
Polling Booths & Voter Infrastructure
A total of 2.19 lakh polling stations (precisely 2,18,807) have been set up across these regions,a notable increase from the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in most areas. This ensures an average of 750–850 voters per booth, reducing queues and improving access.
Comparative booth numbers (approximate/latest ECI data):
- Assam: 31,486 booths (↑ 10% from previous)
- Tamil Nadu: 75,000 booths (highest absolute increase)
- Kerala: Significant jump (21% increase)
- West Bengal: 80,000 booths (marginal increase)
- Puducherry: 1,099 booths (↑ 14%)
Total voters: 17.4 crore
Total election officials: 25 lakh (including security personnel)