Bengal turns fortress for phase-II poll: 2.3 lakh CAPF & 38,297 state cops in place | India News
KOLKATA: The final phase of the West Bengal assembly elections unfolded under a security grid rarely seen in Indian elections, spanning 142 constituencies in seven districts. The numbers define the scale – over 2.3 lakh Central Armed Police Force personnel, 38,297 State Police, 142 General Observers, 95 Police Observers, 100 Expenditure Observers and NIA teams deployed across sensitive areas.A massive crackdown ahead of Wednesday’s polls – an election day framed by overwhelming power, close surveillance and a clear message: voting must be fear-free and fair.More than 800 arrests were made on Monday night alone, increasing the number of preventive detentions. Central parties have also visited sensitive areas, warning local political activists to stay within the law or face consequences.Within 72 hours, 2,348 alleged troublemakers, including TMC councilors from Panihati and Burdwan, were sent to jail on EC orders. Another 653 non-bailable warrants were issued. “The EC has asked the police to ensure that no troublemakers are out by dawn,” a source said.Kolkata stands at the center of deployment. 274 companies of the central force – 22,500 personnel – supported by 7,250 city police, will secure 5,172 booths across 1,961 premises, the highest deployment recorded in the city. East Burdwan (263 companies) and Hooghly Rural (236) also attract a heavy presence, reflecting past flashpoints and risk assessments.About 12,000 booths out of 41,001 are classified as critical. Additional CAPF Rapid Response Teams will cover Bhangar, Canning, Falta and Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas and Nadanghat and Ketugram in East Burdwan. Security plans are calibrated according to constituencies, focusing on vulnerable pockets and inner neighborhoods.NIA teams have spread across all eight constituencies, including Khagragarh, where two accused terrorists were killed and three others injured in a 2014 blast. Their presence underscores heightened vigilance in areas with a history of extremist activity.
