Educational institutes flag concerns for hosting central forces
The Statesman | 28 March 2026
At a time when the educational institutes are grappling with the prospect of hosting Central Forces personnel for a longer duration for the Assembly polls in West Bengal, the Calcutta University is grappling with logistical challenges due to ongoing examinations and election-related arrangements.
Undergraduate third semester examinations under the new education policy are currently underway, while preparations are also being made to accommodate Central Forces for election duties across several colleges. University officials admitted that managing examinations alongside the deployment of paramilitary forces has posed significant challenges. “Under the Vice-Chancellor’s instructions, we have managed to avoid major disruptions in the third semester examinations. However, the first semester examinations scheduled from 10 April will require careful coordination,” said an official.
Across the university’s 166 affiliated colleges, examination arrangements are in place in over 100 institutions. In nearly 10 to 15 colleges, schedules had to be adjusted and the number of examinees reduced due to space constraints. In many institutions, only a few classrooms, libraries, and computer rooms are available for conducting examinations, as other spaces are being earmarked for central forces. Principals have also flagged concerns. Some colleges have requested authorities to reconsider the accommodation of forces within campus premises during examinations, citing safety and logistical difficulties. In a few institutions, examinations had to be deferred altogether, with authorities stating that the simultaneous presence of examinees and paramilitary personnel posed risks. With both academic and administrative pressures mounting, university authorities are now focusing on ensuring that the examination process continues smoothly through April without further disruption.
Today, a memorandum was submitted by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) delegates to the Election Commission of India, highlighting the severe disruption in academic activities caused by the deployment of paramilitary forces in school premises.
“As per our survey, nearly fifty academic days are at risk of being lost ~ an irreparable setback for students. This is not merely a logistical issue but a direct threat to the educational future of thousands of children. We strongly urge the ECI to immediately identify and arrange alternative locations so that students do not continue to suffer such extensive academic loss. It is deeply concerning that while students in private institutions remain unaffected, those in government schools are being disproportionately deprived of their right to education,” said Arnab Maitra, chief spokesperson, AAP, West Bengal.
The commission has assured us that necessary steps will be taken, and we expect swift and decisive action in the interest of students, said the AAP members.