In the heart of Kolkata, with polling underway for West Bengal’s second phase covering 142 seats, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal spoke candidly to reporters about the day’s challenges. His message was unequivocal: the poll machinery is on high alert, responding instantaneously to any hint of trouble.
One early incident involved a congregation near a polling site, neutralized swiftly by rapid response units alongside local and central security personnel. ‘We won’t tolerate disruptions,’ Agarwal declared, outlining the ironclad security framework.
Central forces guard the critical 100-meter radius, safeguarding EVMs and personnel. Offenders face the full wrath of electoral laws, promising no leniency.
Agarwal highlighted the Commission’s zero-tolerance doctrine – repolling is on the cards wherever malpractices are substantiated through live monitoring, on-site verification, or official reports. Complaints are pouring in, each probed meticulously.
Addressing secrecy concerns, he explained the absence of internal surveillance in polling booths. Entry-exit footage is all that’s recorded, preserving the sanctity of the secret ballot.
Potential lawbreakers received a direct caution: interfere at your peril, with jail time looming. As Bengal’s electoral battle intensifies, this phase exemplifies the Commission’s resolve for flawless democratic exercise.
