West Bengal election security plans set out to support free and fair polling, officials say

The Election Commission has reviewed poll preparedness across West Bengal in meetings with district civil and police leaders and Central Armed Police Forces coordinators. Officials said security deployment and monitoring will be strengthened, with zero tolerance for rigging, booth jamming, or voter intimidation. Government, PSU, and local body staff were told to remain strictly non-partisan.

The Election Commission sought to ensure a safe setting for voting in West Bengal, an official said on Monday. District-level civil and police leaders met poll officials through the day. The aim was to check readiness and support free and fair polling. Officials said the approach was meant to reduce fear and stop pressure on voters.

During the reviews, district magistrates, SPs, commissioners of police and Central Armed Police Forces coordinators set out steps to curb illegal influence. "We are committed to ensuring that every voter can exercise their franchise without any fear or pressure. The focus is on creating a secure and conducive environment for free and fair polling, a senior official said.\"

Election Commission West Bengal meetings on security planning

Officers said each district held separate sessions with senior administrators and police heads. The discussions focused on election preparedness and ground-level risks. Officials stressed strict vigilance and coordinated action across agencies. The Election Commission said these steps were designed to strengthen voter confidence ahead of polling.

Authorities warned that electoral offences would face firm action. Officials highlighted concerns such as vote rigging and booth jamming. \"There will be strict monitoring and adequate deployment of forces to prevent any disruption. Any violation will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law, a CAPF coordinator said.\"

Election Commission West Bengal warning on neutrality of officials

Poll officials also reminded government-linked staff to stay away from political activity. The warning covered government departments, public sector undertakings, autonomous bodies and local bodies. \"Government functionaries are expected to uphold neutrality. Any deviation will attract disciplinary as well as legal action, a police officer said.\"

Officials said the outreach aimed to ensure every elector could vote without fear. The West Bengal assembly election for the 294-member House will take place in two phases. Polling is scheduled on April 23 and 29. Counting of votes is set for May 4.

With inputs from PTI