West Bengal Elections: ECI Orders Police to Act on Non-Bailable Warrants Promptly
Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has mandated West Bengal police to enforce all outstanding non-bailable warrants within 10 days, reflecting its commitment to maintaining electoral integrity ahead of the upcoming assembly polls.
Key Takeaways
ECI has ordered West Bengal police to execute pending non-bailable warrants in 10 days.
All state government employees are under ECI's authority during elections.
Security measures are being enhanced for political campaigns.
West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
Results will be announced on May 4.
Kolkata, March 27 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed both the West Bengal Police and the Kolkata Police to carry out all pending non-bailable arrest warrants within the next 10 days. The directive includes taking custody of all individuals against whom such warrants have been issued during this timeframe.
Additionally, the Commission has urged the state and city police to expedite the resolution of all election-related criminal cases from prior elections as soon as possible.
Sources from the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office in West Bengal indicated that the Commission has reiterated that since the Model Code of Conduct is currently in effect, all state government employees have been assigned to the ECI, granting the Commission the authority to impose disciplinary measures for any failure to perform their duties.
Regarding the execution of outstanding non-bailable arrest warrants, the Commission has directed Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) and Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) to promptly compile a list of evading criminals and to conduct special search operations to locate and apprehend them.
Officers-in-charge (OCs) and inspectors-in-charge (ICs) are required to quickly identify areas within their jurisdictions that are particularly susceptible to criminal activities, as well as to pinpoint any individuals with a history of involvement in election-related violence.
The Commission has further advised OCs and ICs to guarantee complete security for political campaigning activities, regardless of political affiliations, and to ensure the safety of those involved in election duties.
The West Bengal Assembly elections are set to take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with polling for 152 Assembly constituencies scheduled in the first phase and the remaining 142 Assembly constituencies in the second phase. The results will be announced on May 4.
Point of View
The Election Commission's directive reflects a proactive approach to ensure accountability during the electoral process. It underscores the need for law enforcement to act decisively against individuals evading justice, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the upcoming elections.
NationPress
8 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for executing non-bailable warrants?
The Election Commission has set a deadline of 10 days for the execution of all pending non-bailable warrants.
When are the West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled?
The elections will occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
What authority does the ECI have over state government employees?
The ECI has the authority to take disciplinary action against state government employees who fail to perform their duties during the Model Code of Conduct.
How many constituencies will vote in each phase of the elections?
The first phase will cover 152 constituencies, while the second phase will include 142 constituencies.
What measures are being taken for election security?
Police officers have been instructed to ensure security for all political campaigns and to identify areas prone to electoral violence.
