The Election Commission of India (ECI) is determined to break the cycle of political violence in West Bengal for the upcoming 2026 Assembly Elections. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar has asserted that ensuring a transparent, fair, and peaceful electoral process is the commission’s primary objective. Following the announcement of the poll schedule, the ECI has rolled out a series of strategic measures to safeguard the democratic rights of every citizen.

Tough Security Measures in Two Phases With the elections scheduled in two phases (April 23 and 29), the commission plans to saturate the state with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). CEC Gyanesh Kumar emphasized that early deployment and extensive route marches in sensitive zones will serve as a ‘Confidence Building Measure’ for the electorate.

Key Steps Taken by ECI for a Fair Election:

• Zero Tolerance Policy: Stringent action against anyone involved in pre-poll or post-poll violence or voter intimidation.
• Professional Force Deployment: Strategically utilizing central forces to augment the local police and ensure no fear near polling booths.
• Administrative Accountability: Clear instructions to DMs and SPs to enforce the rule of law without favor or fear.
• Voter Outreach: Encouraging the elderly and persons with disabilities through Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) at every station.

Gyanesh Kumar highlighted that the ECI aims to wash away the “disrepute” associated with Bengal’s elections due to past violence. The commission is set to leave no stone unturned to ensure a festive and safe voting environment.