In a major pre-poll crackdown, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has raised serious concerns over the deployment of state police security for 832 individuals allegedly close to the ruling Trinamool Congress. Labeling this as a “serious lapse,” the Commission has directed the West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) to conduct a mandatory professional review within the next 2-3 days.

Data reveals that a staggering 2,185 police personnel are currently assigned to guard these 832 individuals. The ECI has emphasized that security must be provided based on professional threat assessments rather than political affiliations. The DGP has been ordered to ensure an equitable and neutral reassessment of all security covers provided by the state.

Taking a firm stance against post-poll violence, the ECI has also decided to retain 500 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in West Bengal even after the counting process concludes. An additional 200 companies will join the existing force to maintain law and order. This unprecedented move aims to ensure that the peace is maintained long after the results are declared, preventing any retaliatory clashes.