30 additional companies of central forces likely to be deployed in Bengal ahead of second phase of polling

At present, there are 277 companies of central forces in West Bengal. By the third phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in the state, the EC has sought to deploy around 100 more companies.

30 additional CAPF companies to arrive in state ahead of second phase of polls

A security personnel on duty at a polling station in Cooch Behar district during the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on Friday. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Ahead of the second phase of Lok Sabha elections, 30 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will be reaching West Bengal from Sikkim and Meghalaya, sources said.

Three Lok Sabha constituencies — Darjeeling, Balurghat, and Raiganj – will vote on April 26 (Friday).

At present, there are 277 companies of Central forces in the state.

Sources in the Election Commission (EC) said that it has sought another 100 companies of CAPF for deployment in West Bengal during the third phase when four Lok Sabha constituencies — Malda Uttar, Malda Dakshin, Jangipur, and Murshidabad — will vote on May 7. If the Union Home Ministry meets the EC’s request, then 400 companies of Central forces will be deployed in the state.

The deployment of additional companies of Central forces comes following reports of violence, assault, and intimidation were reported in the first phase of the elections last Friday.

In the first phase when three constituencies went to polls, 112 companies of CAPF were deployed in Cooch Behar alone, where most incidents of assault and intimidation – 218 — were reported.

As per the Election Commision, 89 per cent of booths will be manned by the Central forces and the remaining 11 per cent booths by the state armed police, aided with CCTVs, webcasting, videography and micro-observers.

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The Lok Sabha election is being held in seven phases in West Bengal. The counting of votes will take place on June 4.

Sweety Kumari

Sweety Kumari is a seasoned journalist reporting from West Bengal for The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience in the media industry and eight years specifically with The Indian Express, she demonstrates considerable Expertise and Authority across a diverse range of critical beats. Experience & Authority Current Role: Journalist, The Indian Express, reporting from West Bengal. Extensive Tenure: Over 10 years of experience in the media industry, with a long association (8 years) with The Indian Express, contributing to a high level of Trustworthiness. Diverse Coverage: Covers crucial beats including Crime, Defence, Health, and Politics, alongside writing on trending topics. Investigative Focus: Possesses a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories, demonstrating depth and skill in impactful journalism. Beat Versatility: Has honed her craft across diverse beats, including aviation and reporting on various incidents, ensuring well-rounded and comprehensive reportage. Career Start: Began her journalistic journey as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a news portal in Kolkata, providing a foundational understanding of media landscape and audience engagement. Education Advanced Education: Holds a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, equipping her with advanced media theory and skills. Undergraduate Education: Holds an Honours degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College. Multilingual Skill: Her fluency in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili enhances her reach and capability to connect with diverse sources and communities in the region, adding a layer of accessibility and authenticity to her reporting. Regional Roots: Originally from Bihar, she was brought up and educated in Kolkata (Kendriya Vidyalaya Salt Lake), giving her a deep, personal understanding of the cultural and political nuances of her reporting region. Sweety Kumari's combination of significant experience, specialization in key beats like Crime and Politics, and strong academic background makes her a trusted and authoritative contributor to The Indian Express. ... Read More

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