EC orders execution of all pending non-bailable warrants in Bengal within 10 days

The Election Commission of India has directed police authorities in West Bengal to execute all pending non-bailable warrants within ten days, intensifying enforcement measures ahead of the Assembly elections. The directive applies to both state police and Kolkata Police, with clear instructions that individuals against whom such warrants have been issued must be arrested within the specified timeframe. The Commission has also called for the expedited disposal of election-related criminal cases from previous polls.

According to officials, once the Model Code of Conduct comes into force, all state government employees are deemed to be on deputation under the Commission, making them directly accountable for election duties. Any negligence or failure to comply with directives could invite disciplinary action. The move underscores the Commission’s intent to ensure a strict and impartial law-and-order environment during the election period.

Police officers at multiple levels, including sub-divisional police officers and deputy superintendents, have been instructed to compile lists of absconding offenders and launch special raids to apprehend them. Station House Officers and Inspectors-in-Charge have also been directed to identify sensitive areas and monitor known anti-social and history-sheeter elements linked to past election-related violence, aiming to prevent any disruption during polling.

The Commission further emphasised that all political parties must be provided adequate security for their campaign activities without discrimination, while ensuring the safety of election personnel. West Bengal will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, covering all 294 constituencies, with counting scheduled for May 4.