West Bengal is preparing for the first phase of its Assembly elections on April 23, 2026, which will cover 152 constituencies including significant areas such as Nandigram, Darjeeling, and Siliguri. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) are competing intensely for control of the Chief Minister's office. Voting will take place from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with those in line by 6:00 PM still allowed to vote. Voters are required to present valid identification, primarily the Voter ID card, but alternative IDs such as Aadhaar, PAN, and passports are also accepted. Special provisions for postal ballots and home voting are available for senior citizens aged 85 and above, persons with disabilities, and essential service workers. A 48-hour silence period will be enforced before polling, prohibiting political campaigning, along with dry days to ensure peaceful voting conditions.