With the high-stakes second and final phase of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections wrapping up on Wednesday, attention now shifts to exit polls, which are set to be released after 6:30 pm on April 29, in accordance with Election Commission norms. Phase 2 covers the remaining constituencies of the 294-member Assembly, marking the culmination of an intense and closely fought contest. Both the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have made last-ditch efforts to sway voters, underscoring the significance of this final leg.As per Election Commission guidelines, exit polls cannot be published until 30 minutes after polling concludes in the last phase. This means projections for West Bengal, along with Tamil Nadu,
Kerala, Assam and Puducherry, will begin emerging only after the stipulated time on April 29.
High turnout sets the stage
The first phase of polling in West Bengal, held on April 23 across 152 constituencies, witnessed a strikingly high turnout, touching nearly 93% in several areas. This robust participation has heightened expectations around the final outcome.Exit Poll 2026: Date and Timing
- Exit Poll Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
- Release Time: After 6:30 PM IST.
- Why the wait: The second and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections concludes at 6:00 PM on April 29. Media houses are legally allowed to broadcast predictions only 30 minutes after the final vote is cast to ensure no influence on active voters.
Where to Watch Live Coverage
Major news networks and digital platforms will provide minute-by-minute analysis and seat-wise projections. You can tune in to:- Television: Popular news channels Times Now.
- YouTube Live Streams: Most major networks will stream their "Election Special" coverage for free on their official YouTube channels.
- Digital Platforms: Real-time updates will be available on apps and websites like Times Now


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