Calcutta HC Orders ECI to Ensure Voter Security and Amenities for Bengal Elections
Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court mandates the Election Commission to enhance security and provide essential facilities for voters during the upcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal, highlighting shared responsibilities with the state government.
Key Takeaways
Calcutta High Court emphasizes voter safety during elections.
Election Commission of India instructed to provide essential amenities.
West Bengal elections set for April 23 and 29 .
Public interest litigation highlights collaborative responsibility.
First phase: 152 constituencies; Second phase: 142 constituencies.
Kolkata, March 25 (NationPress) A bench of the Calcutta High Court issued a directive on Wednesday, instructing the Election Commission of India (ECI) to implement comprehensive safety measures and ensure adequate provisions for drinking water and other essential amenities for voters at every polling station set to be used in the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal next month.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen, responded to a public interest litigation filed by Samik Bhattacharya, the West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party President and Rajya Sabha member, urging judicial intervention to guarantee complete booth-level security for the elections scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
Additionally, the bench clarified that the petitioner lacked the authority to determine whether a central or state agency would be responsible for maintaining order during the elections.
The court emphasized that the ECI would ultimately make decisions regarding the issue of security at polling stations.
The bench also highlighted the importance of ensuring that voters are provided with basic amenities such as drinking water and that adequate security measures are in place at polling locations.
During the proceedings on March 18, the court raised the question of whether the West Bengal government shares responsibility with the ECI in ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and devoid of violence.
West Bengal will conduct elections in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the first phase covering 152 Assembly constituencies and the second phase involving 142 constituencies.
On the same day, the public interest litigation challenging recent ECI orders regarding the transfer, replacement, and deputation of bureaucrats and police officers is also slated for hearing in front of the same bench of the Calcutta High Court.
Point of View
The court's acknowledgment of the West Bengal government's role highlights a collaborative approach necessary for a successful electoral process.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Calcutta High Court direct the ECI to do?
The court directed the ECI to ensure adequate safety arrangements and provide essential amenities like drinking water at all polling stations for the upcoming elections.
When will the elections in West Bengal take place?
The elections are scheduled to be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
Who filed the public interest litigation?
The public interest litigation was filed by Samik Bhattacharya, the West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party President.
What is the significance of the court's ruling?
The ruling emphasizes the need for security and basic amenities for voters, indicating the collaborative responsibility between the ECI and the state government.
How many constituencies will vote in each phase?
The first phase will involve 152 constituencies, while the second phase will cover 142 constituencies.
