300 more central force companies to reach Bengal as Election Commission intensifies poll security plans

The Election Commission has stepped up preparations to ensure peaceful and fair voting in West Bengal, announcing the deployment of additional central forces ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. According to commission sources, around 300 more companies of central forces are expected to arrive in the state by March 31 as part of a larger security plan.

In total, approximately 2,400 companies of central forces will be deployed across the state during the elections. Earlier this month, 480 companies had already been stationed in West Bengal in what officials described as an unprecedented early deployment. The remaining forces are expected to arrive in phases in the coming days. To coordinate the deployment of the large security contingent, the Election Commission has already held meetings to finalise strategies regarding the distribution and responsibilities of the forces. Another virtual meeting is scheduled to review the plan, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Manish Garg and attended by Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal and other senior officials.

West Bengal will go to the polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Officials said central forces will not be restricted only to polling stations but will also monitor surrounding areas to prevent intimidation, unrest or booth capture. Route marches will be conducted across sensitive areas, including Kolkata, with police already preparing detailed route maps for security deployment.