The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday said its primary objective is to ensure a violence-free Assembly election in West Bengal in 2026 following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar assuring that no eligible voter’s name will be excluded from the list.
Addressing a press conference after a series of meetings in Kolkata, Kumar said the commission was committed to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections in the state.
“No legitimate voter’s name will be left out,” he said, adding that the poll panel would take all necessary steps to maintain a transparent and inclusive electoral process.
“If any eligible voter’s name is not in the list, then the person can fill form No 6 and submit the documents. His name will be automatically included in the list,” Kumar said
A full Bench of the Election Commission, led by Kumar, arrived in West Bengal on Sunday for a three-day visit to review preparations ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls.
Since Monday, the commission has held multiple meetings with administrative, police and political stakeholders.
In the first round of discussions, the ECI team met district magistrates, superintendents of police and police commissioners from all 23 districts of the state.
Officials from 24 central and state agencies also participated in the meeting to discuss election preparedness and coordination.
The poll panel also held separate interactions with representatives of recognised national and state political parties in the state, including both ruling and opposition parties, to hear their views and concerns regarding the upcoming elections.
Following the meetings, Kumar told reporters that the ECI had reviewed the overall law and order situation in the state and found it to be “relatively satisfactory.”
At the same time, he warned against any attempt to disturb the electoral process.
“Free and peaceful elections will be held in West Bengal. Any form of provocation will not be tolerated,” the Chief Election Commissioner said.
Elections in the state have historically witnessed sporadic incidents of violence in certain pockets. Several districts, including South 24-Parganas, Murshidabad and Malda, have in the past reported clashes, bomb attacks and even fatalities during the poll period.
However, the commission noted that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal were largely peaceful, with no reported loss of life due to poll-related or post-poll violence.
The ECI said it was determined to maintain that trend during the 2026 Assembly elections as well.
Kumar also issued a strong message to officials involved in the election process, reminding them that they must function strictly in accordance with the directives of the Election Commission.
He cautioned that any officer found acting under the influence or instructions of political parties or leaders would face strict action from the commission.
“All officers associated with the election process must follow only the commission’s directions,” he said, adding that neutrality and adherence to rules were essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
The Chief Election Commissioner also directed all district superintendents of police to take immediate and stringent action in the event of any attempt to create violence or disturb public order during the election period.
Highlighting the growing role of digital platforms, Kumar said the administration must maintain strict vigilance over social media to prevent the spread of rumours or provocative content that could incite unrest during the polls.
He said the commission would adopt a “zero tolerance” approach against those spreading fake news or misinformation related to the elections.
Officials have been instructed to closely monitor online activity and take prompt legal action against individuals or groups attempting to circulate false or inflammatory information.