The Election Commission of India is taking proactive measures to ensure peace and security in West Bengal following the conclusion of voting. Even before the counting of votes begins, the commission has decided to retain approximately 70,000 central armed police personnel in the state. These forces will maintain a continued vigil, particularly in areas with a history of post-election violence. The commission has also pledged to initiate strict action against any attempts to target political rivals.
Preparations to Prevent Repeat of 2021 Violence
As part of the security arrangements, the Election Commission aims to prevent a recurrence of the post-poll violence that occurred in 2021. According to a report by the then Director General of Police submitted to a National Human Rights Commission inquiry committee, there were 1,934 incidents of violence after the 2021 elections. These included murders, sexual assaults, arson, and grievous hurt. To monitor the situation on counting day, which is scheduled for May 4, control rooms will be established at the Election Commission's headquarters, Nirvachan Sadan, and at the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer. These control rooms will direct immediate action in the event of any untoward incident.
Vigil in Vulnerable Areas
The forces still stationed in West Bengal will keep a strict watch over vulnerable pockets that witnessed violence in 2021. Anyone found involved in any attempt at violence will face strict action as per the law. The commission has emphasized that no leniency will be shown to those who try to disrupt the peace.
Details of 2021 Post-Poll Violence
The National Human Rights Commission's inquiry report from 2021 documented organized, widespread, and targeted violence based on political affiliation across multiple districts in the months following the counting. The 1,934 incidents of post-poll violence included 29 murders, 12 cases of sexual assault, 391 instances of grievous hurt, 940 cases of arson or vandalism, and 562 incidents of intimidation. Although 9,304 persons were accused, only 1,345 were arrested. The NHRC probe found that First Information Reports were not registered in 60% of the complaints.
Supreme Court Plea for Monitoring Committee
In a recent Public Interest Litigation filed in the Supreme Court, a plea was made to direct the constitution of a high-level monitoring committee under a retired judge to oversee the functioning of the law and order machinery in West Bengal. The plea further sought that the state government be instructed to maintain law and order and take necessary steps, including the deployment of adequate central forces personnel in vulnerable areas.
The Election Commission's decision to retain a significant number of central forces in the state reflects its commitment to ensuring a peaceful post-election environment. By setting up control rooms and taking a firm stance against violence, the commission hopes to avoid the tragic incidents that marred the 2021 elections.
