Vote counting begins across West Bengal under tight security at 77 centres, with three-layer protection, strict verification, and central force deployment. Results for 293 constituencies expected today, while Falta seat counting delayed due to re-poll.
Counting of votes for the recently concluded two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal is set to begin at 8 a.m. on Monday across 77 centres, amid heightened security and strict monitoring protocols. Authorities have put in place an extensive, multi-layered security arrangement to ensure a smooth, transparent, and violence-free counting process across the state.
According to the Election Commission of India, results will be declared for 293 out of the total 294 Assembly constituencies. The counting for the Falta Assembly seat in South 24 Parganas district has been deferred following the Commission’s decision to conduct a complete re-poll there on May 21. The results for that constituency will be announced separately on May 24.
In a notable shift from previous elections, the Commission has significantly reduced the number of counting centres this year. While there were 108 centres in 2021 and 90 in 2016, the number has been brought down to 77 in 2026. Initially, officials had proposed 87 centres, but the final decision further consolidated them to strengthen security concentration and logistical efficiency.
Security arrangements have been described as unprecedented, with a three-tier protection system implemented at every counting location. The innermost layer, which includes the counting halls, will be secured exclusively by central armed police forces. The second layer, covering the premises outside the counting rooms but within the centres, will be jointly managed by central and state security personnel. The outermost layer, extending beyond the counting centres, will be under the supervision of local law enforcement units, including city and district police forces.
Strict entry protocols have also been enforced. Only authorised personnel—including election officials, candidates, and designated party agents—will be allowed access to counting centres after undergoing a rigorous three-stage verification process. This includes manual identity checks at two levels, followed by QR code-based digital verification. To maintain integrity and prevent information leaks, only counting observers and returning officers will be permitted to carry mobile phones inside the counting rooms.
To further strengthen oversight, the Election Commission of India has deployed 165 additional counting observers, supplementing the existing team. In addition, 77 police observers have been assigned to monitor law and order conditions and ensure adherence to security protocols at each centre.
Officials stated that these measures are aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful and intimidation-free environment during the counting process. The Commission has emphasized transparency and accountability as key priorities, particularly in light of past incidents.
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To prevent any recurrence of post-poll unrest, which was reported after the 2021 Assembly elections, approximately 700 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will remain stationed across West Bengal until further notice. Their continued presence is intended to deter violence and maintain stability during and after the announcement of results.
With political stakes high and voter turnout significant, the counting day is expected to be closely watched both nationally and regionally. The administration has urged all stakeholders to cooperate with authorities and maintain calm as the democratic process reaches its final stage.
