EC deploys 11 more police observers in Bengal, security intensified ahead of April 29 voting

The Election Commission of India has significantly strengthened security arrangements in West Bengal ahead of the second phase of voting on April 29 by appointing 11 additional police observers. With this move, the total number of police observers in the state has risen to 95, a figure being seen in administrative circles as nearly unprecedented. The decision comes as the Commission prepares to oversee polling across the remaining 142 constituencies, where ensuring a peaceful electoral process is expected to be a major challenge.

According to officials, sensitive and highly sensitive polling booths have already been identified, and the newly appointed observers will be deployed specifically in these areas. All 11 officers are from outside the state, a step aimed at maintaining neutrality in monitoring. However, their security arrangements will be handled by the state police. The observers are expected to arrive within the next few days, with necessary coordination already initiated between election authorities and law enforcement agencies.

The move follows lessons drawn from scattered incidents reported during the first phase of polling held on April 23 across 152 constituencies. While the phase was largely peaceful, complaints included opposition polling agents being prevented from entering booths, malfunctioning electronic voting machines, and allegations of voters being obstructed from casting their votes. Taking these concerns seriously, the Commission has opted for tighter surveillance in the second phase to avoid any repeat of such disruptions.

Voter turnout during the first phase stood at an unusually high 92.88%, which officials described as rare in the post-independence period. At the same time, discussions have emerged around possible reasons behind the surge, with some attributing it to concerns related to the Special Intensive Revision process. Reports suggest that several voters, including those working outside the state, returned home to ensure their participation in the electoral process.

From the outset of the election, the Commission has maintained strict oversight across the state. Each assembly constituency has been placed under general observers, alongside a large number of expenditure and police observers. Despite the election being conducted in fewer phases, authorities appear determined not to compromise on transparency or security. As attention now shifts firmly to April 29, the successful conduct of polling in the remaining constituencies will serve as a crucial test for the Commission’s preparedness.