West Bengal Panchayat Polls: Central Forces deployed at every polling booth to curb violence

In response to the escalating incidents of violence during panchayat election campaigns in West Bengal, the State Election Commission has implemented a comprehensive framework for the deployment of central forces.

The commission has reached out to the central government, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to ensure the safety and integrity of the electoral process.

Murshidabad district, which has witnessed a significant number of political conflicts, will witness the highest deployment of central forces. A total of 45 companies of central forces are being deployed in Murshidabad, with an additional 37 companies allocated for East Medinipur and Howrah districts. The North 24 Parganas, East Burdwan, Nadia, South 24 Parganas, Malda, Cooch Behar, and Hooghly districts will also witness substantial central force presence with 35, 33, 31, 30, 30, 28 companies respectively.

The State Election Commission's decision to deploy central forces aims to address the rising concerns over violence and maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the upcoming panchayat elections. Furthermore, apart from the Bengal Police, 19 other states have been approached to contribute their police forces for election security.

With this enhanced security strategy, the State Election Commission seeks to minimize incidents of violence, ensure the safety of candidates and voters, and uphold the democratic principles that underpin the electoral process. By collaborating with the central forces and state police, a joint effort is being made to create a conducive environment for free and fair elections in West Bengal.