Is ECI Enhancing Web Surveillance for Polling Booths in the 2026 Bengal Elections?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India is set to enhance web surveillance mechanisms for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections in 2026. This move aims to ensure a transparent and secure electoral process. High-resolution cameras will be deployed inside and outside polling booths to monitor activities closely and prevent unauthorized gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced web surveillance to improve election transparency.
- 360-degree camera views will be implemented in polling booths.
- High-resolution cameras will monitor the area surrounding polling booths.
- Proposals suggest reducing election phases for efficiency.
- Emergency response teams will address any technical issues promptly.
Kolkata, Dec 26 (NationPress) As the vital West Bengal Assembly elections approach in the upcoming year, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is gearing up to implement a more sophisticated web surveillance system at polling booths statewide during the electoral process.
Sources from the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office in West Bengal reveal that, as an initial measure, cameras placed inside polling booths for webcasting will be strategically adjusted to provide a 360-degree view of the entire area, allowing officials to monitor the live feed from control rooms effectively.
Additionally, high-resolution cameras will be positioned outside polling booths to capture visuals of the surrounding vicinity to a specific distance. This initiative aims to swiftly identify any unauthorized gatherings of political party members or other suspicious activities near polling stations.
Moreover, insiders from the CEO's office indicated that every camera installed at polling booths will undergo rigorous checks by technical teams assigned by the Election Commission before voting begins.
Any technical issues occurring during the polling period will be resolved immediately by the technical teams. Likewise, any attempts to tamper with the cameras or the webcasting process, including efforts to obstruct camera lenses, will be addressed without delay.
Meanwhile, there are indications that the number of phases for the West Bengal Assembly elections in 2026 might be significantly reduced compared to the previous elections in 2016 and 2021, provided the Election Commission approves the proposal submitted by the CEO's office.
A preliminary decision regarding this could be made at a crucial Commission meeting scheduled for January 5, which will include West Bengal CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal and other senior officials from his office.
Sources within the CEO's office have suggested that the proposal is to conduct the elections in a single phase, or if that is not possible, in a maximum of two phases, but definitely not more.
In 2021, the West Bengal Assembly elections took place over eight phases, with polling occurring from March 27 to April 29.
In 2016, the elections were held in six phases, the first of which spanned two days, effectively creating a seven-day polling period.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Election Commission of India to enhance transparency and security in the electoral process. These advancements in web surveillance technology reflect a commitment to uphold democratic values and ensure a credible voting environment for the citizens of West Bengal.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the enhanced web surveillance?
The enhanced web surveillance aims to monitor polling booths effectively, ensuring a transparent electoral process and quick identification of any unauthorized activities.
How many phases are expected for the 2026 elections?
There is a proposal to conduct the elections in a single phase or, if not feasible, in a maximum of two phases.
What measures will be taken if cameras malfunction during polling?
Technical teams will address any malfunctions detected during polling on an emergency basis.
How were the previous elections conducted in West Bengal?
In 2021, the elections were held in eight phases, while in 2016, they were conducted over six phases.
Who will oversee the camera installations at polling booths?
Technical teams appointed by the Election Commission will thoroughly check all camera installations prior to polling.
