Nearly 500 companies to stay in Bengal after counting day
Kolkata: In a significant move ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, the Election Commission has decided that around 500 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will remain deployed in the state even after the completion of polling and counting, to prevent post-election violence.
According to official inputs, a massive deployment of nearly 2,400 CAPF companies has been planned across West Bengal in phases, leading up to the polls. Out of these, about 480 companies were already stationed early in the election cycle, with the remaining forces scheduled to arrive in batches before polling concludes.
Polling is set to take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes will be held on May 4. Traditionally, central forces begin withdrawing soon after the electoral process ends. However, in a departure from past practice, authorities have now decided to retain a substantial number of forces beyond May 4 for an indefinite period.
The phased withdrawal plan highlights the scale of security management. Once polling ends, around 1,700 companies are expected to be withdrawn, while nearly 200 companies will continue to guard strong rooms and counting centres until results are declared. Crucially, at least 500 companies will remain stationed in the state even after the counting day, “till further notice” to maintain law and order.
This extended deployment reflects heightened concern over post-poll violence, a recurring issue in Bengal’s electoral history. Officials believe that maintaining a strong central force presence after results are announced will help deter retaliatory attacks, political clashes and intimidation of voters or party workers.
The CAPF—comprising forces such as the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB—will be tasked not only with area domination and patrolling but also with safeguarding sensitive zones across districts.
Their continued presence is expected to provide reassurance to voters and ensure stability during the crucial post-election phase.
By retaining such a large contingent even after the democratic process formally concludes, the Election Commission is signalling a zero-tolerance approach towards violence, aiming to ensure that the transition of power, if any, takes place peacefully and without disruption.
