Kolkata, 16 April (H.S.) : In a bid to ensure strict monitoring during the upcoming two-phase West Bengal Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has decided to install multiple CCTV cameras across polling stations in the state.

According to sources in the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, three CCTV cameras will be deployed at sensitive polling booths, while general polling stations will be equipped with two cameras each.

Of the three cameras at sensitive booths, two will be installed inside the polling station and one outside. For general booths, one camera will be placed inside and another outside the premises.

All cameras will be linked to district control rooms located in the offices of district magistrates, as well as to a central control room at the Chief Electoral Officer’s office in Kolkata, enabling real-time monitoring.

Officials said the surveillance system will be powered by artificial intelligence. Any unusual activity, such as the presence of unauthorised crowds or irregularities at polling stations, will trigger immediate alerts to both district and central control rooms.

The arrangement is designed to provide a 360-degree view of activities inside polling stations, ensuring comprehensive oversight of the voting process.

Additionally, highly sensitive booths will have dedicated videographers deployed to closely monitor proceedings.

The Commission has also decided to equip vehicles of the Central Armed Police Forces’ Quick Response Teams with GPS trackers to ensure their movement is continuously monitored on polling day.

Sources indicated that in previous elections, complaints were received regarding the improper deployment of security forces despite adequate availability. In response, the Commission has opted for tighter surveillance and accountability measures this time to ensure effective utilisation of forces.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh