With only a few hours left before campaigning ends for the second phase of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, political leaders have intensified their efforts to reach voters across the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed key concerns of the Matua community, promising that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would ensure citizenship for Hindu refugees who migrated from Bangladesh.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee focused her campaign on her constituency, Bhabanipur, where she held a roadshow. She raised concerns about voter list deletions and criticized the administration appointed by the Election Commission. She also warned officials against misuse of power.

Meanwhile, Arvind Kejriwal joined the Trinamool Congress campaign, addressing rallies in Kolkata and Howrah in support of the party.

Campaigning for the second phase will officially end at 6 p.m. on April 27, 2026. The Election Commission of India has announced strict security measures across 142 constituencies, stating that any attempt to disrupt voting will be dealt with firmly.

The southern region of West Bengal is expected to play a decisive role in the election results. Districts like North and South 24 Parganas, along with Kolkata and Howrah, account for 91 out of the state’s 294 seats. These areas are considered strongholds of the Trinamool Congress and are crucial for any party aiming to form the government.

Historically, success in South Bengal has been key to winning power in the state. In the 2021 elections, the Trinamool Congress dominated this region, winning 96 out of 111 seats, while the BJP secured only 14.

As voting approaches, all eyes remain on this crucial region that could determine the future government of West Bengal.