CAPF Chiefs Convene in Kolkata for Unprecedented Security Planning Ahead of West Bengal Elections

For the first time, the heads of India's Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) convened in Kolkata to assess security measures ahead of the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections.

The gathering, described by senior officials as unprecedented, marks the first instance where CAPF Directors General have met in a state gearing up for elections during the electoral process.

Massive Deployment for Poll Security

Approximately 200,000 personnel have been mobilized from various forces, including:

Central Reserve Police Force

Border Security Force

Central Industrial Security Force

Indo Tibetan Border Police

Sashastra Seema Bal

This deployment is supplemented by Indian Reserve Battalions and state police units.

Integrated Security Grid Planned

At a concurrent leadership summit at the CRPF headquarters in Salt Lake, officials finalized plans for an “integrated security grid” aimed at:

• Preventing disruptions during polling
• Ensuring coordination with West Bengal Police
• Enhancing area domination and surveillance

Technology-Driven Security Measures

The security strategy includes:

• Deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs)
• Conducting anti-sabotage checks
• Implementing technology-driven monitoring systems

The objective is to ensure a secure and intimidation-free atmosphere for voters.

Coordination with Election Authorities

Cohesion between senior CAPF officers, state police officials, and Election Commission-appointed observers was emphasized as they reviewed arrangements, particularly for the first phase covering 152 seats on April 23, followed by the second phase on April 29.

Ensuring Democratic Integrity

The officials underscored their commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process beyond routine security measures.

CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan stressed the importance of the forces operating as a united, disciplined, and technologically advanced entity to ensure the elections are conducted freely and fairly.