West Bengal polls: Timings, guidelines, documents — what you need to know

New Delhi: Voting for the second and final phase of West Bengal elections will take place today from 7 am to 6 pm. The polling will take place across 142 constituencies.

In the first phase on April 23, 152 assembly constituencies went to polls. The first phase recorded a record voting turnout of 93.2 per cent. The counting of votes for both phases will take place on May 4.

The Election Commission has made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth and violence-free voting process in the state.

What you need to know before voting

A voter will have to carry a valid photo identity at their designated polling booth. Many types of documents are accepted by the EC to allow a voter to vote. These include:

  • Voter ID card (EPIC)
  • Aadhaar card
  • Passport

Without proper ID, a person will not be allowed to cast his vote. Use the ECINET App before leaving to confirm your exact polling station

What not to take inside polling booth

  • EC does not allow mobile phones inside polling booths, it is strictly prohibited. While some booth might have deposit centres, it is best to not carry as it might get lost
  • Voters are also advised not to wear or display any political party symbols.

What to do once inside polling booth

  • Once inside the booth, voters must verify their details before they will be allowed to cast vote.
  • After pressing the button on Electronic Voting Machine (EVM), the voter can verify his/her voting by sing the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine.

Voters should try to reach the booth early to avoid long queues.