Unprecedented Deployment of 2.4 Lakh CAPF Personnel in West Bengal for Upcoming Elections
Record 2.4 Lakh CAPF Personnel Deployed In Bengal Ahead Of Assembly Polls
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The Election Commission of India is deploying 2.4 lakh Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel in West Bengal for the upcoming assembly elections, the highest ever for a single state. This move aims to ensure free and fair polling amid security concerns, especially following a recent incident in Malda district.
- 01The deployment of 2.4 lakh CAPF personnel is the highest in a single state for elections.
- 02A detailed post-poll security plan will ensure protection for Electronic Voting Machines and counting centers.
- 03The decision follows security concerns after judicial officers were allegedly gheraoed in Malda district.
- 04The Election Commission has removed several senior officials to maintain neutrality in the electoral process.
- 05Previous elections in West Bengal saw lower CAPF deployments, indicating increased vigilance this time.
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The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to deploy 2.4 lakh Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel in West Bengal for the upcoming assembly elections, marking the highest deployment in a single state during elections. This decision reflects heightened security concerns, particularly after a recent incident in Malda district where judicial officers faced intimidation. Following this, the Supreme Court directed authorities to ensure adequate protection for judicial officers, prompting the ECI to hand over the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for further investigation. In preparation for the elections, which will occur on April 29, 2026, the ECI has also implemented a detailed post-poll security plan. Approximately 200 CAPF companies will remain in the state to guard Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and counting centers, while 500 companies will continue to assist with law and order. The ECI has taken significant administrative actions, including the removal of senior officials in West Bengal, to ensure a neutral electoral process. The current deployment is notably larger than in previous elections, where around 725 CAPF companies were deployed during the 2021 Assembly elections. This increase indicates a heightened level of vigilance in West Bengal, which has a history of poll-related violence.
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The extensive deployment of CAPF personnel aims to enhance security and ensure a peaceful electoral process, which is crucial for maintaining public confidence in the democratic system.
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