In a first-of-its-kind move, chiefs of India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) held a high-level meeting in Kolkata to review security arrangements for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections.
Senior officials described the meeting as “unprecedented”, marking the first time CAPF Directors General convened in a poll-bound state during an election cycle.
Massive Deployment for Poll Security
Nearly two lakh personnel from multiple forces have been deployed, including:
- Central Reserve Police Force
- Border Security Force
- Central Industrial Security Force
- Indo Tibetan Border Police
- Sashastra Seema Bal
They are supported by Indian Reserve Battalions and state police units.
Integrated Security Grid Planned
During the meeting and subsequent leadership summit at the CRPF headquarters in Salt Lake, officials finalised plans for an “integrated security grid” to:
- Prevent disruptions during polling
- Ensure coordination with West Bengal Police
- Strengthen area domination and surveillance
Technology-Driven Security Measures
Security preparations include:
- Deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs)
- Anti-sabotage checks
- Use of technology-driven monitoring systems
The focus is on ensuring a safe, secure, and intimidation-free environment for voters.
Coordination with Election Authorities
Senior CAPF officers, state police officials, and Election Commission-appointed observers reviewed arrangements, particularly for the first phase covering 152 seats on April 23, followed by the second phase on April 29.
Ensuring Democratic Integrity
Officials emphasised that the mission goes beyond routine security, aiming to protect the sanctity of the electoral process.
CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan highlighted the need for forces to operate as a unified, disciplined, and technologically capable entity to ensure free and fair elections.
