Kolkata, 26 April (H.S.): With the first phase of polling over, the Election Commission has intensified preparations for the second phase, drawing up a detailed security plan to ensure free and fair voting across 142 Assembly constituencies.

At a coordination meeting held at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium on Sunday, the Commission outlined its strategy, assigning specific responsibilities to police and central forces. Officials said the focus would be on maintaining a fear-free environment from polling day till the completion of counting.

To prevent any unrest, security deployment will not be limited to polling stations. Forces will also patrol interior lanes and neighbourhoods. As part of this plan, 160 motorcycles will be deployed, each carrying two personnel, to conduct continuous surveillance and respond swiftly to any suspicious activity.

The Commission also decided to enhance monitoring at all levels, especially in sensitive areas where additional forces will be deployed. CCTV cameras may be installed not only at polling stations but also along routes leading to booths, if required. Detailed plans regarding the deployment of Quick Response Teams and police personnel were also reviewed.

Officials have been directed to ensure there is no lapse in maintaining law and order, with strict instructions for immediate action in case of any disturbance.

The meeting was attended by the Kolkata Police Commissioner, returning officers, district election officers of North and South Kolkata, general observers and police observers. Special Observer Subrata Gupta and Special Police Observer N.K. Mishra were also present.

Meanwhile, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal is conducting field visits across districts to review preparedness. On Sunday, he visited Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas and held a meeting with senior officials to assess security arrangements.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey