Kamal Ghorui
Kolkata: West Bengal’s final phase of assembly polls unfolds under a security grid rarely seen in Indian elections, stretching across 142 constituencies in seven districts. Numbers define the scale – over 2.3 lakh Central Armed Police Forces personnel, 38,297 state police, 142 general observers, 95 police observers, 100 expenditure observers, and NIA teams have fanned out across sensitive zones.A sweeping crackdown preceded Wednesday’s polling – an election day framed by overwhelming force, close surveillance and a clear message: polling must remain fear-free and fair.More than 800 arrests were made Monday night alone, adding to the surge in preventive detentions. Central teams also visited sensitive zones, warning local political functionaries to stay within law or face consequences.In 72 hours, 2,348 alleged troublemakers have been jailed under EC directives, including TMC councillors in Panihati and Burdwan. Another 653 non-bailable warrants were issued. “EC has asked police to ensure no trouble-mongers are outside by dawn,” a source said.Kolkata stands at the centre of deployment. As many as 274 companies of central forces – 22,500 personnel – backed by 7,250 city police will secure 5,172 booths across 1,961 premises, the highest deployment recorded in the city. East Burdwan (263 companies) and Hooghly Rural (236) also drew a heavy presence, reflecting past flashpoints and risk assessments.Nearly 12,000 booths have been classified as critical out of 41,001. Additional CAPF quick-reaction teams will cover Bhangar, Canning, Falta and Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas, and Nadanghat and Ketugram in East Burdwan. Security planning has been calibrated constituency-wise, focusing on vulnerable pockets and interior neighbourhoods.NIA teams have spread across all eight electoral districts, including Khagragarh, where a 2014 blast killed two alleged terrorists and wounded three. Their presence underscores heightened vigilance in areas with a history of extremist activity.
