ECI seeks report from Bengal Police on withdrawal of security cover for tainted leaders

Kolkata — The Election Commission of India has sought a status report from the West Bengal Police on the implementation of its directive to withdraw state-provided security cover for tainted political leaders, regardless of party affiliation.

The Commission asked nodal officers handling the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections to submit the report by noon. Earlier, it had ordered the removal of security cover for leaders facing criminal cases, including those out on bail or parole, as well as individuals with a criminal history.

The deadline for withdrawing such security arrangements expired at midnight on Thursday. The directive also covered those enjoying unauthorised state-provided security despite not being entitled to it under protocol.

The Commission further instructed authorities to act against tainted leaders with pending non-bailable arrest warrants, directing that these be executed within a reasonable period.

In addition, the poll body asked both the West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police to expedite disposal of poll-related criminal cases from previous elections.

Sub-divisional police officers and deputy superintendents were directed to prepare lists of absconding criminals and conduct special raids to apprehend them. Officers-in-charge and inspectors were also told to identify sensitive areas prone to electoral violence and track history-sheeters involved in poll-related offences.

The Commission emphasised ensuring security for campaign programmes of all political parties and safeguarding personnel engaged in election duties.

Polling for the West Bengal Assembly elections will be held in two phases — April 23 and April 29 — covering 152 constituencies in the first phase and the remaining 142 in the second. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.

With inputs from IANS