Kolkata Police vows strict action amid poll unrest; CP says ‘such incidents won’t recur’

Facing the media at Lalbazar, newly appointed Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Nanda on Tuesday outlined the force’s preparedness for the upcoming two-phase elections, asserting a firm commitment to ensuring a “peaceful” and “fear-free” polling process across the city. Acknowledging the scale of the challenge, he said all officers have been deployed at the ground level to maintain law and order.

Responding to recent incidents, including stone-pelting at the residence of Shashi Panja, the Commissioner described the episode as “unfortunate” and pointed to the limited availability of central forces at the time. He stressed that maintaining law and order remains the police’s responsibility, adding that such incidents would not be allowed to recur and that focused action would be taken in affected areas if necessary.

Addressing concerns over election-related disturbances such as torn posters, wall writing conflicts, and recovery of explosives and weapons, Nanda said investigations are underway and strict monitoring is being carried out by Kolkata and district nodal officers. Reiterating the force’s stance, he emphasised that ensuring a free and fair election remains the top priority, with continuous vigilance and enforcement measures in place.