Kolkata Police has issued a verbal advisory instructing all officers from the rank of sub-inspector and above posted at police stations, and preferably assistant sub-inspectors, to remain stationed at their respective police stations, including during night hours, until the end of the polling process. This measure is intended to ensure that officers are readily available on call at all times.
Operational Pressure Intensifies
Several officers in charge (OCs) have stated that this verbal advisory reflects the mounting operational pressure in the lead-up to the elections. The instruction is expected to remain in effect until voting concludes in the city. Sources indicate that senior officers are frequently engaged in field visits and inspections that continue until 2:30 am or 3 am, leaving minimal time to disengage from station duties. One officer remarked, 'With the workload increasing, most officers are staying back late into the night. There are nightly inspections as well as mandatory preparations for the next day.'
Enhanced Night Operations
Police sources added that late-night hours are also being utilized for intensified raids to track down suspects and prevent potential disturbances, further stretching manpower resources. Approximately 300 motorcycles, with two from each police station, have been requisitioned for patrol and rapid response duties, making it impractical for senior officers to be away from their bases for extended periods.
Sector-Based Monitoring
In parallel, Kolkata Police has begun dividing each police station area into four to five sectors ahead of the elections to strengthen ground-level monitoring. Each sector is being managed by a team comprising a police officer, a central forces officer, and two civil officers. These sector teams have been tasked with conducting thorough area inspections, identifying sensitive pockets, interacting with residents, and gathering inputs on any intimidation or threats related to voting. They are also maintaining continuous vigil to ensure peaceful polling.
These measures underscore the comprehensive efforts by Kolkata Police to maintain law and order during the election period, ensuring that all necessary resources are deployed effectively to facilitate a smooth and secure voting process.
