Additional 240 companies of central forces to be deployed in Bengal ahead of polls

In a proactive move to ensure peaceful polling for the 2026 Assembly Elections, the Election Commission has finalized the deployment plan for the second phase of central paramilitary forces in West Bengal. An additional 240 companies are scheduled to arrive in the state on March 10, bringing the total initial strength to 480 companies. These forces are being stationed even before the formal announcement of the election dates, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to maintaining law and order and conducting a violence-free electoral process.

The deployment strategy shows a clear focus on sensitive zones, with the South 24 Parganas district receiving the highest concentration of security personnel. Areas including Baruipur, Diamond Harbour, and the Sundarbans will see a combined deployment of 33 companies. Kolkata follows closely as a high-priority zone, with 30 companies slated for the city across two phases. Other significant deployments include 18 companies in Kolkata specifically for this phase, 17 in East Burdwan, and 15 in Purulia, ensuring a robust presence in both urban and rural belts.

Following instructions from the Home Ministry, the first batch of 240 companies has already commenced route marches across various districts to build voter confidence. The Commission has provided a detailed breakdown for all police districts, ranging from 12 companies in Murshidabad to smaller contingents in hilly regions like Darjeeling and Kalimpong. This unprecedented early arrival of forces is part of a broader mandate to prevent any post-announcement unrest and to secure polling booths well in advance.

As speculation grows regarding the official election notification, the Election Commission has called for emergency meetings to review final preparations. While the dates are expected to be announced by mid-March, the administrative machinery is already in top gear. Officials have been strictly instructed that the forces must remain active and mobile, conducting regular patrols rather than staying stationary, to ensure maximum visibility and deterrence against any electoral malpractice.