Kolkata: The Election Commission has decided to further strengthen security arrangements for the West Bengal Assembly elections. This time, approximately 3000 additional personnel will be deployed. For this, security forces are also being called in from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh.
These additional forces will work in conjunction with the already present Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Security is being particularly increased in areas deemed ‘highly sensitive’ during the elections.
Force Deployment to Begin from April 13
According to sources, the additional police force called for election duty will begin arriving in West Bengal in a phased manner from April 13. Election Commission officials state that their goal is to ensure completely fair and peaceful polling.
2,400 CAPF Companies to be Deployed
Considering the seriousness of the security situation in the state, the Commission has already planned the deployment of 2,400 CAPF companies. During the first phase of voting on April 23, these forces will be responsible for security inside and outside polling stations.
Former Police Commissioner’s Plea Rejected
The Election Commission has rejected the plea of Kolkata’s former Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar. He had sought relief from his new responsibility as a police observer in Tamil Nadu, citing health reasons, but the Commission has directed him to take charge by Monday at all costs.
Supratim Sarkar has been assigned the responsibility of monitoring important constituencies in Tamil Nadu, such as Tirunelveli, Ambasamudram, Palayamkottai, Nanguneri, and Radhapuram. According to official sources, his request for exemption was not accepted, and he was asked to join duty immediately.
Voting in West Bengal in Two Phases
Assembly elections in West Bengal will be held in two phases on April 23 and 29, while vote counting will take place on May 4. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has repeatedly accused the Election Commission of working in favor of the BJP. Additionally, the dispute between the Trinamool Congress and the Election Commission has deepened over the special revision of the electoral rolls.
