ECI asks Bengal to withdraw state-provided security of those accused in criminal charges
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed West Bengal authorities to withdraw state-provided security covers for political leaders facing criminal charges, ahead of the state’s assembly elections on April 23 and 29, 2026.
ECI issued the order to remove security for tainted leaders across all parties, including those out on bail, parole, with past accusations, or criminal history, with a deadline of midnight on April 2. It also targets unauthorized security not per protocol and demands execution of pending non-bailable warrants soon. On April 3, ECI sought a compliance status report from West Bengal Police nodal officers by noon.
Police must expedite prior poll-related criminal cases, list absconding accused for raids, and monitor crime-prone areas and history-sheeters to prevent violence. ECI questioned DGP Siddh Nath Gupta on excessive security for ruling Trinamool Congress leaders, expecting a report soon. This aims to ensure impartial security deployment during elections.
