Kolkata, April 3: The Election Commission has expressed serious concerns regarding the extensive deployment of police personnel for the personal security of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders by the West Bengal and Kolkata police. The Commission has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to conduct an impartial and professional review of the situation within the next 2-3 days.
The Commission noted potential bias in the selection of security coverage, as the state government’s security personnel primarily benefited leaders of the ruling party. Ahead of the elections, the West Bengal government had deployed 2,185 police officers specifically for the protection of 832 TMC leaders and 144 others, including party supporters.
Taking this matter seriously, the Election Commission has instructed DGP Siddh Nath Gupta to conduct a fair and professional review within the next few days. Previously, the Commission ordered the removal of security for leaders based on their criminal records, regardless of their party affiliation. This included leaders on bail, parole, or those facing criminal charges.
The Commission also mandated the withdrawal of security coverage from leaders receiving unauthorized protection. Furthermore, it directed prompt action against leaders with non-bailable warrants issued against them. These measures aim to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
Since the initiation of the Special Investigation Report (SIR) on October 27, 2025, until the announcement of elections on March 15, 2026, the West Bengal government transferred a total of 1,370 officials, including 97 IAS officers, 146 IPS officers, 1,080 West Bengal Civil Service officers, and 47 West Bengal Police Service officers. While the Election Commission has transferred some officials, it has also requested the DGP to review this matter.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has deployed Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to ensure peaceful elections in Bengal. According to the Commission, 500 companies of the CAPF will remain deployed to maintain law and order even after the counting of votes in West Bengal. This deployment will continue until further notice from the ECI.
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