Election Commission Issues Fresh Directive Ahead of West Bengal Voting

The Election Commission of India on Monday directed that civic, village, and green police personnel in West Bengal be moved to barracks three days before polling to help ensure free and fair elections.

These auxiliary personnel, usually recruited from local youth meeting fitness and eligibility criteria, assist regular police in traffic control, public events, festival gatherings, and similar duties.

The move comes amid allegations by opposition parties that such personnel were being used in poll-related duties in violation of norms.

In an order sent to all Commissioners of Police and Superintendents of Police, the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer stated that all such personnel must report to reserve police lines three days before the poll date.