Kolkata, 11 March (H.S.) : Police observers appointed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) will take the final decision on the deployment and movement of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, officials said on Wednesday.

According to officials, district-specific composite teams will be constituted to assess ground-level security requirements. These teams will identify sensitive areas and recommend the number of CAPF units required, while the final decision will rest with the designated police observers.

Sources said the change in authority comes after feedback received during the Commission’s meetings with political parties. Representatives of several parties had alleged that during previous elections, central forces were not optimally utilised and were sometimes kept away from areas where their presence was most needed.

In response, the Commission has decided to tighten monitoring mechanisms and ensure that security forces are deployed strictly based on requirements.

Meanwhile, the Commission has directed the state administration to complete the first phase of route marches and area-domination exercises by available CAPF personnel in all districts by 8 p.m. on March 14. These exercises are aimed at boosting voter confidence and demonstrating a strong security presence ahead of the polls.

Officials said that a total of 480 CAPF companies have already reached West Bengal in two phases and their district-wise deployment has been finalised.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, during a review visit, emphasised that the Commission would adopt a strict and uncompromising approach towards poll-related violence. He reiterated that the ECI would follow a zero-tolerance policy towards violence before, during and after the elections.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh