Massive Security Deployment For Bihar Assembly Polls: 50,000 CAPF Troops To Be Inducted ‘Initially’

In one of the largest deployments of central security forces for a state election, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in pursuance of the Election Commission of India, has cleared the induction of 500 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to Bihar ahead of the 2025 legislative assembly polls. This massive contingent, translating to nearly 50,000 personnel, will form the first wave of deployment in the state, with more troops likely to be sent later, depending on the security situation and requirements during polling.

According to an official communication reviewed by News18, the induction of forces will be completed by October 5, 2025. The units will be drawn from across multiple paramilitary organisations: 118 companies of CRPF,

99 of BSF, 92 of CISF, 75 of ITBP, 96 of SSB, and 20 of RPF. The move is aimed at strengthening law and order, conducting flag marches, boosting public confidence, and carrying out surveillance and area domination during the election process. Officials described it as one of the most significant mobilisations of central forces for any state assembly election.

Importantly, over 70 companies of the CRPF will also be withdrawn from J&K to reach Bihar for elections.

It has been directed that special trains and coaches be arranged by the Railway Board on priority for transporting the large contingent of security personnel into Bihar.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has written to the MHA, emphasising the need for adequate security arrangements during the polls. Following this, the ECI has urged the Bihar state government to ensure proper transportation, accommodation, and logistics for the incoming CAPF personnel. These measures, according to the commission, are crucial to enable the forces to operate effectively across districts, particularly in sensitive and vulnerable areas.

Officials stated that while the induction of 500 companies marks the beginning of the deployment plan, more reinforcements may follow once the polling schedule is announced and the security assessment is updated. The unprecedented mobilisation underlines the significance of the upcoming Bihar polls, with authorities determined to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections across the state.

Apart from this, along with manpower, a large consignment of anti-riot equipment and non-lethal weapons will also be deployed to aid in crowd control and to manage any law-and-order challenges. Few companies will be equipped with 70 helmets with and without visors, 70 body protectors, 70 polycarbonate or cane shields, 70 sheen guards, and 70 lathis. In addition, six gas guns or anti-riot guns per company will be supplied. Supporting ammunition and devices such as shells, grenades, PAGs with cartridges, rubber bullets, plastic pellets, and smoke candles will also be provided as per approved scales. Officials said the equipment is part of a comprehensive preparedness plan to deal with any untoward incidents without excessive use of lethal force.