State Election Commission demands 2 companies of central forces in every Bengal district

Following a recent decision by the Supreme Court upholding the High Court's order to deploy central forces in the upcoming Bengal Panchayat elections, the State Election Commission has taken prompt action. Sources reveal that the commission is considering requesting two companies of central forces for each district. The State Election Commissioner, Rajiv Sinha, has sought legal advice and is preparing the necessary application in light of the Supreme Court's verdict.

Upon learning about the Supreme Court's decision, the State Election Commission immediately convened a meeting to discuss the deployment of central forces. The meeting focused on determining the required number of forces for each district and assessing the availability of state forces.

State Election Commissioner Rajeev Sinha had previously stated that the commission would abide by the Supreme Court's directions regarding central forces. The Supreme Court's announcement on Tuesday clarified that it would not interfere with the High Court's order.

The Supreme Court's decision has sparked political debates, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expressing satisfaction while the ruling Trinamool party remains unfazed by the court's ruling.

In response to the Supreme Court's decision, Trinamool spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Shantanu Sen expressed confidence in their party's prospects. Sen drew an analogy, likening the situation to a student who performs well in exams regardless of the examiner or strict exam hall security. He emphasized that the Trinamool party has consistently secured victories in elections, including those where central forces were deployed, and therefore has no concerns about the upcoming Panchayat elections.