The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to announce the schedule for the high-stakes Assembly elections in West Bengal and four other states today, March 15, 2026. According to official sources, the full bench of the Commission will address a press conference at 4 PM at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi. The schedule for West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry will be unveiled during this highly anticipated meeting.

In West Bengal, the focus remains on the number of phases. Given the recent bouts of political violence and the demand for adequate central paramilitary forces, the ECI is expected to opt for a staggered polling process. The announcement will immediately trigger the Model Code of Conduct across all poll-bound states, putting a halt to new government schemes and announcements.

Political parties across the spectrum have already intensified their campaigns. While the ruling TMC has advocated for fewer phases, opposition parties like the BJP and the Left-Congress alliance are demanding a phase-wise election under strict security supervision. Today’s announcement at 4 PM will bring clarity on the polling dates, the number of phases, and the counting day, officially marking the beginning of the democratic showdown in the state.