Security withdrawn for leaders facing criminal charges in WB
The directive, issued to District Magistrates, also called for an assessment of rank and threat perception, rendering such individuals ineligible for security protection
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday ordered the immediate withdrawal of state-provided security cover for politicians and individuals facing criminal charges in poll-bound West Bengal.
The directive, issued to District Magistrates, also called for an assessment of rank and threat perception, rendering such individuals ineligible for security protection.
Officials said the move aims to prevent misuse of government security, which in some instances was allegedly used to intimidate voters.
District magistrates and police authorities have been instructed to act swiftly, with additional directions to arrest those accused in non-bailable cases within ten days.
The Commission has also sought a detailed list of all individuals currently receiving security cover, including their names and designations, for each Assembly constituency and police district. A deadline has been set for submitting this information.
The state police nodal officer has been directed to furnish a comprehensive security report by this afternoon. The decision follows recent incidents of violence in Malda and other districts, raising concerns over the law and order situation in the state.
