Hyderabad, April 15: Election Commission of India has directed officials in West Bengal to inspect violence prone areas. District Magistrates and police chiefs must submit reports by 5 pm on April 16.
The directive covers areas affected during past elections. These include the 2021 Assembly polls, 2023 Panchayat polls, and 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Officials must review locations that saw violence before, during, or after voting.
The Commission also asked authorities to strengthen communication systems. Each polling station must have mobile, satellite, and wireless connectivity. This step aims to ensure real time monitoring during polling.
ECI orders inspection of violence prone areas, tightens poll norms
Senior officials must visit sensitive booths along with police teams. They must also ensure preparedness ahead of the Assembly polls. Meanwhile, the Commission reiterated strict guidelines for polling staff.
Polling personnel must remain impartial at all times. They cannot accept gifts or any political influence. Moreover, mock polls are now mandatory before voting begins.
Officials must check EVMs and VVPATs before polling. Any irregularity must be reported immediately through the ECInet app. It can also be reported to the Chief Electoral Officer if needed.
Separately, Kolkata Police issued fresh instructions on law enforcement. Police stations were told to execute pending arrest warrants without delay. They must either arrest the accused or report action taken to headquarters.
The directive applies to both bailable and non bailable warrants. Therefore, all police units must act promptly and submit updates.
The Assembly elections in West Bengal will be held in two phases. Voting will take place on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
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