West Bengal’s Election Commission has declared 7,384 polling stations as super-sensitive ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, where 1,478 candidates are set to contest. The move follows concerns over security and voter integrity, with the state government deploying Quick Reaction Teams to manage potential unrest. The announcement comes amid rising tensions in regions like Kolkata and Howrah, where past elections have seen violent clashes.
Super-Sensitive Booths: A New Security Measure
The Election Commission of India has identified 7,384 polling stations as high-risk due to historical incidents of voter intimidation and booth capturing. These booths are concentrated in districts such as North 24 Parganas, where previous elections saw allegations of booth rigging. The decision was made after a review of security reports and consultations with local police authorities.
The super-sensitive designation means these booths will have increased police presence, CCTV surveillance, and real-time monitoring. The aim is to ensure free and fair voting, especially in areas where political rivalries have often led to violence. In a statement, the EC said, “We are taking every precaution to protect the democratic process.”
Quick Reaction Teams: A Controversial Addition
The state government has deployed 250 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) across West Bengal to handle any disturbances during the election. These teams, consisting of paramilitary personnel and local police, are tasked with responding swiftly to incidents of violence or voter suppression. However, critics argue that the presence of QRTs may intimidate voters and undermine the election’s fairness.
“The QRTs are a necessary step to maintain order, but we must ensure they don’t become a tool for political bias,” said Dr. Anjali Das, a political analyst at Jadavpur University. “Their deployment must be transparent and impartial.” The teams are also expected to assist in the smooth conduct of the voting process, including managing long queues and ensuring voter identification.
Community Response Varies
While some residents in Kolkata and Howrah welcome the increased security, others fear the presence of QRTs could lead to over-policing. In a survey conducted by the West Bengal Election Monitoring Group, 62% of respondents said they felt safer with more security, while 38% expressed concerns about potential misuse of power.
In rural areas like Malda and Murshidabad, where voter turnout is historically lower, the focus is on ensuring accessibility. Local leaders are urging the EC to provide more mobile polling units to reach remote villages. “We don’t want voters to be turned away because of long distances,” said Rajesh Kumar, a village head in Murshidabad.
Impact on Daily Life and the Local Economy
The heightened security measures have already begun affecting daily life in West Bengal. In cities like Howrah and Siliguri, traffic is being rerouted near polling stations, and some markets have reported a decline in footfall. Small businesses, particularly those in urban centers, are worried about reduced customer activity during the election period.
“The security presence is making people cautious, and that’s affecting our sales,” said Aparna Ray, a shop owner in Kolkata. “We hope the situation returns to normal after the voting is done.” Meanwhile, the local economy is also feeling the pressure of increased expenditure on security and logistics. The state government has allocated ₹250 crore for election-related expenses, a significant portion of which goes toward hiring security personnel and setting up infrastructure.
What to Watch Next
The 2026 West Bengal assembly elections are set for March 2026, with the final voter list expected to be released by December 2025. The EC has also announced that the first phase of voting will take place in the state’s most sensitive constituencies, including those in the northern and eastern regions. Voters will be required to present valid ID documents, and the use of electronic voting machines will be strictly enforced.
As the election approaches, the focus will remain on the effectiveness of the Quick Reaction Teams and the overall security framework. Political parties are already preparing for a tight contest, with the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP vying for dominance. Citizens across the state are watching closely, hoping for a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
