‘3-tier security shield, 200 companies of CAPF, no room for mischief’: Bengal CEO lays out ironclad plan for counting day
The Statesman | 4 May 2026
As West Bengal heads into a tense counting day, the state’s Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal on Sunday made it clear that the Election Commission is leaving nothing to chance. With the political stakes high and past controversies fresh, authorities have rolled out an extensive security grid, backed by nearly 200 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), to ensure a disruption-free verdict day.
Projecting confidence in the system, the CEO underlined that secured counting centres, strict access control and layered surveillance will govern the process from start to finish. Counting is set to begin with postal ballots at 8 am, followed by EVM votes at 8:30 am, with real-time updates expected through official platforms.
Detailing the arrangements, Agarwal said a robust three-tier security system has been put in place, combining State Police, State Armed Police and CAPF personnel. Around 200 CAPF companies have been deployed, with nearly two companies stationed at each counting centre to maintain strict vigilance.
Officials said CCTV surveillance, controlled entry points and strict monitoring protocols have been enforced to ensure that only authorised personnel have access to counting halls.
The CEO issued a strong warning against any attempt to disrupt the process, placing direct responsibility on officials inside counting centres. Undertakings are being submitted by Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers, confirming adherence to all rules, with the Commission empowered to act in case of lapses.
“All government employees, whether from the central government or the state government, any person inside the counting hall, including RO (Returning Officer), ARO, if there is any mischief, they will be held responsible… All rules will be followed. Just as voting took place peacefully, the counting will also take place peacefully… I request all political parties, candidates, party agents, the public, and everyone that the counting should take place peacefully. There will be no mischief anywhere. Everything will be peaceful,” Agarwal said. He also noted that if any breach occurs inside counting centres or unauthorised material is found, the primary responsibility will lie with the central forces deployed at the site.
Authorities are on guard against any law-and-order issues, with the CEO indicating that restrictions around counting centres could be tightened further if needed. Meetings with Observers, District Election Officers and Returning Officers are being held to coordinate the final phase of preparations.
On sensitive issues, including the Falta incident, the CEO said webcasting footage will be reviewed only after results are declared to maintain transparency, with strict action promised if any official wrongdoing is found. A decision on allowing victory processions is yet to be taken, with inputs being sought from district administrations.
“The Election Commission has held a meeting with magistrates, police, district officials, and the Director General of Police. I request people not to create any unrest, nor allow others to do so. There should be no violence during the counting of votes after the elections in the state. Nothing happened during the polling in the first and second phases. I hope nothing will happen tomorrow as well… My request is to let the counting tomorrow take place peacefully. I assure you that the counting will be transparent. We will monitor it at every level… I request everyone to maintain peace and calm,” he said.
To avoid disruptions, especially power outages flagged during previous elections, backup systems, including generators, have been put in place across centres.
With layered security, strict oversight and clear accountability, the Election Commission is aiming to ensure that the final verdict in West Bengal is delivered without disruption.