Bengal becomes fort for second phase of voting: 2.3 lakh CAPFs and 38,297 state police personnel deployed. india news
Kolkata: The final phase of assembly elections in West Bengal is being concluded under a security grid rarely seen in Indian elections, spread across 142 constituencies across seven districts. The numbers define the scale – over 2.3 lakh Central Armed Police Forces personnel, 38,297 state police, 142 general observers, 95 police observers, 100 expenditure observers and NIA teams are deployed in sensitive areas.A massive crackdown preceded Wednesday’s voting – an election day marked by heavy force, tight surveillance and a clear message: Voting must remain fear-free and fair.More than 800 arrests were made on Monday night alone, leading to an increase in preventive detention. Central teams also visited sensitive areas and warned local political officials to stay within the law or face consequences.In 72 hours, 2,348 alleged miscreants have been jailed under Election Commission directions, including TMC councilors in Panihati and Burdwan. Another 653 non-bailable warrants were issued. “The EC has asked the police to ensure that no miscreants remain outside till morning,” a source said.Kolkata is at the center of deployment. At least 274 companies of central forces – 22,500 personnel – supported by 7,250 city police, will guard 5,172 booths in 1,961 premises, the highest deployment recorded in the city. East Burdwan (263 companies) and Hooghly Rural (236) also recorded a heavy presence, reflecting previous flashpoints and risk assessments.Out of 41,001 booths, about 12,000 have been kept in the sensitive category. Additional CAPF quick-response teams will cover Bhangar, Canning, Falta and Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas and Nadanghat and Ketugram in East Burdwan. The security plan has been adjusted constituency wise, with a focus on sensitive areas and hinterland.NIA teams have spread across all eight electoral districts, including Khagragarh, where two alleged terrorists were killed and three injured in the 2014 blast. Their presence underlines the increased vigilance in areas with a history of extremist activity.