As West Bengal gears up for the 2026 Assembly Elections, ensuring a peaceful and rigging-free environment in Birbhum has emerged as a top priority for the district police. With the voting scheduled for April 23 in the first phase, the newly appointed Superintendent of Police (SP) for Birbhum, Surya Pratap Yadav, has taken a firm stand against “Chhappa Vote” (proxy voting) and booth capturing, which have historically plagued the district’s electoral process.

Following a major reshuffle by the Election Commission of India, SP Surya Pratap Yadav assumed charge and immediately identified the prevention of electoral malpractice as his biggest challenge. To instill confidence among voters and deter anti-social elements, intensive route marches by Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have already commenced across the district. “Our goal is simple—every voter should be able to cast their ballot without fear,” stated the SP during a briefing on the security measures.

The district administration has designed a multi-layered security plan, especially for sensitive zones. Strict vigil is being maintained at the district borders to prevent the entry of miscreants or outsiders during the election period. Enhanced surveillance through CCTVs at polling booths and a heavy deployment of forces are part of the strategy to eliminate any chances of rigging. The SP warned that any attempt to disrupt the peace or manipulate the voting process would be met with an iron hand. Birbhum police are working round the clock to ensure that the “Land of Red Soil” witnesses a transparent and democratic election this time around.