Kolkata, April 9 (NationPress) Senior police officials in Kolkata are mandated to patrol the streets from 10 PM to 2 AM, as ordered by Police Commissioner Ajay Nand.

During a meeting with high-ranking police officials on Thursday, he emphasized the necessity for senior officers to be visible in public and conduct nighttime inspections in various sectors.

The Police Commissioner instructed officers to maintain vigilant oversight in all matters related to the elections. These officials are also empowered to issue necessary directives upon assessing the gravity of situations.

In attendance at the meeting were the city's Joint Police Commissioner and officers of Deputy Commissioner rank, who have also been tasked with nighttime inspections. They are to oversee the entire process during naka (checkpoint) searches.

Furthermore, these senior officers are expected to collaborate closely with central forces. There is a strong focus on monitoring and inspecting areas ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

Voting will take place across 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal in two phases, specifically on April 23 and April 29. Eleven constituencies located in Kolkata are scheduled to vote on the 29th, with results being revealed on May 4.

At this point, the state's police force is operating under the authority of the Election Commission.

In response to unrest surrounding nomination paper submissions by Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur, the Election Commission inquired whether the Commissioner of Police could ensure law and order in Kolkata.

Subsequently, the Commissioner of Police convened a meeting with officials from Lalbazar (the city police headquarters) to discuss security measures.

It's noteworthy that the Election Commission previously removed Supratim Sarkar from his role as Kolkata Police Commissioner and appointed Ajay Nand ahead of the Assembly elections.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her concerns regarding the police's actions on Thursday, alleging inadequate security during her nomination submission march.

In light of these developments, the police are conveying a message to the public about maintaining peace. The Kolkata Police is committed to ensuring a voting environment that is free from fear and intimidation, with strict measures planned to quell any disturbances. Any attempts to obstruct or disrupt polling booths will be met with appropriate legal actions, following the Commission's directives.

The police encourage citizens to vote without apprehension. If anyone faces interference while voting, they are urged to report it to the nearest police station.