In view of possible violence after polling and counting in West Bengal, the Election Commission of India has adopted unprecedentedly strict measures this time.
The Commission has made it clear that law and order will not be allowed to deteriorate under any circumstances, and a multi-layered security and monitoring system has been put in place.
- As a major step, around 700 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been retained in the state to maintain peace in sensitive areas and to respond swiftly to any incident of violence. In addition, tight security arrangements have been made around counting centres.
- CAPF and local police will jointly monitor all activities to eliminate any possibility of clashes or disruptions.
- To further strengthen surveillance, 24×7 control rooms have been set up at the ECI headquarters in Delhi and at the CEO office in West Bengal. These control rooms will continuously monitor the situation on counting day and ensure immediate action in case of any untoward incident.
- For enhanced security and transparency, a QR code-based entry system has been introduced. Only authorised officials, candidates, and counting agents with photo ID cards will be allowed entry into counting centres.
- Additionally, a 24-hour helpline (1800-345-0008) has been issued to report any violence or unlawful activities, ensuring a prompt response and action.
ECI Learns From 2021 Violence
The Commission’s strict approach stems from the widespread violence witnessed after the 2021 Assembly elections. Allegations of complicity involving police and those in power had surfaced at the time.
A report by the National Human Rights Commission documented 1,934 incidents, including 29 murders, 12 cases of sexual assault, 391 cases of grievous injury, 940 incidents of arson
and vandalism, and 562 cases of intimidation. Out of 9,304 accused persons, only 1,345 were arrested.
A court-appointed fact-finding committee reported 52 murders and 11 rape cases. Of the 3,384 complaints forwarded to the state, nearly 1,000 received no response. On-ground findings also revealed that FIRs were not registered in about 60 per cent of the cases. More than 15,000 victims were identified.
The Calcutta High Court had made strong observations, stating that the situation reflected a breakdown of the rule of law and indicated organised violence and a systemic nexus.
PIL In Supreme Court On Bengal Situation
Recently, a Public Interest Litigation was filed in the Supreme Court of India (SANATANI SANGSAD & ANR. vs Election Commission of India & Ors.), raising concerns over law and order in West Bengal.
The petition seeks the constitution of a high-level monitoring committee headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, deployment of adequate CAPF in vulnerable areas, restrictions on the transfer of law enforcement officials without committee approval, a robust grievance redressal system, and fast-track action against erring police officials.
ECI’s Stern Warning
The Election Commission has warned that anyone involved in violence will face strict legal action.
Overall, the Commission is leaving nothing to chance this time. Through heavy security deployment, technological monitoring, and strict directives, it aims to ensure that the electoral process in West Bengal is conducted peacefully and fairly.
