India, March 15 -- The Election Commission of India is likely to announce the schedule for Assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and the Union Territory of Puducherry later on Sunday.

The poll body has invited media organisations to a press conference at 4 pm, triggering speculation that the much-awaited election announcement is imminent.

Once the schedule is announced, the Model Code of Conduct will immediately come into force. This means political parties will be barred from announcing new schemes or promises aimed at influencing voters, and the Election Commission will assume control of the administrative machinery during the poll period.

Voting in West Bengal is expected to take place over three to four phase...