Centre To Deploy 480 CAPF Companies For West Bengal Assembly Elections

In a significant pre-election development, the Centre has announced the deployment of 480 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) across West Bengal for the upcoming assembly elections. The decision, taken in consultation with the Election Commission of India (ECI), marks one of the largest early deployments of central forces in the state’s electoral history.  

Key Highlights  

• 480 CAPF companies to be deployed across West Bengal for assembly elections  
• First batch of 240 companies to arrive on March 1, second batch on March 10  
• Deployment includes CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB personnel  
• Forces will secure polling stations, EVMs, strong rooms, and counting centers  
• Final electoral roll to be published on February 28, polls likely in April  
• Early deployment signals ECI’s focus on ensuring free and fair elections  

Strategic Impact  
The deployment underscores the Centre’s and ECI’s emphasis on maintaining law and order during the high-stakes West Bengal assembly elections. With the state’s history of politically charged contests, the presence of CAPF is expected to reassure voters and strengthen confidence in the electoral process.  

By sending forces ahead of the formal announcement of poll dates, authorities aim to prevent pre-poll violence and ensure smooth conduct of elections. Analysts note that this move reflects heightened vigilance and could significantly shape the security environment in the run-up to the polls.  

Sources: News18, Hindustan Times, Times Now Navbharat, Daijiworld