Ahead of the crucial vote counting for the West Bengal Assembly elections, the state’s Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal has assured that a robust three-layer security system has been put in place across all counting centres to ensure a free, fair and transparent process.
Addressing concerns raised by various political parties over the safety of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and strong rooms, the CEO said that comprehensive arrangements have been made in coordination with central forces and state police. “A three-layer security system is in place. There is no need for concern,” he stated, urging parties and voters not to pay heed to rumours.
According to officials, the first layer of security consists of central armed police forces deployed at the innermost perimeter, directly guarding strong rooms where EVMs and VVPAT machines are stored. The second layer includes state armed police managing the middle perimeter, controlling access points and movement of personnel. The outermost layer is handled by local police and administrative teams to regulate crowds and maintain law and order outside counting centres.
In addition to physical security, all strong rooms are under 24x7 CCTV surveillance, with live footage accessible to authorised officials. Representatives of political parties have also been allowed to keep continuous watch outside strong rooms, a standard practice aimed at maintaining transparency and trust.
The assurance comes amid heightened political tension in the state, with allegations and counter-allegations between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP over possible irregularities in handling election materials. Several protests have been reported outside strong rooms in recent days, prompting authorities to further tighten security.
Election officials reiterated that the entire counting process will follow strict guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India. Entry into counting halls will be restricted to authorised personnel, including counting staff, observers, and agents of candidates.
The CEO also warned against the spread of misinformation on social media, stating that strict action would be taken against those attempting to disrupt the process through rumours. He appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate with authorities and maintain peace during the counting process.
With counting day approaching, security has been intensified across sensitive districts in West Bengal. Authorities remain on high alert to ensure that the democratic exercise concludes smoothly and without any untoward incidents.
