KOLKATA: Kolkata’s new Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Nand moved swiftly to quell concerns on Tuesday, asserting no tensions exist between West Bengal Police and central paramilitary forces since the state assembly election schedule was unveiled last week.
Speaking a day after assuming office, Nand highlighted the structured deployment of central forces for indirect assistance during the elections. ‘Deployments happen in phases with prior approvals,’ he explained. ‘Clear directives prevent any clashes, and communication channels via nodal officers are well-established.’
Dismissing accusations of poor coordination, he stressed adherence to predefined timelines. Nand also assured that upcoming polls will be free, fair, and secure, with Kolkata Police dedicated to citizen protection.
Recent complaints, from poster vandalism to the altercation near Minister Shashi Panja’s home on March 15, are being probed rigorously. ‘No central troops were in the vicinity then,’ Nand noted, countering delays in response claims. ‘Our teams are equipped to manage law and order swiftly, monitoring rallies and gatherings proactively.’
With central forces’ presence minimal statewide for now, Nand vowed not to falter in his leadership role. This firm stance aims to build confidence as political activities intensify, promising impartial enforcement of electoral norms.