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In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and Assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim, the Election Commission (EC) has formally requested the deployment of 3.4 lakh Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel. This strategic deployment aims to ensure a phased and secure electoral process, maintaining the principles of fairness, freedom, and peace.
The EC, in communication with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), highlighted the requests from chief electoral officers across states and Union territories for CAPFs to perform a range of critical election duties. These duties include area domination, confidence-building measures, poll day responsibilities, safeguarding electronic voting machines (EVMs), securing strong room centers, and managing counting center security during the elections.
Acknowledging the essential role of CAPFs in election-related operations, the EC has sought not only personnel but also ensured the availability of adequate rolling stocks equipped with all necessary facilities. This measure is designed to facilitate hassle-free mobilization and timely movement of forces, contributing to the efficient execution of election duties.
The EC has meticulously considered the requests from state CEOs and formulated a plan for the phased deployment of approximately 3,400 companies of CAPFs across all states and Union territories. Each CAPF company typically consists of around 100 personnel. The phased deployment strategy is geared towards maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner.
The allocation of CAPF companies reflects a nuanced approach, with West Bengal expected to witness the highest deployment of up to 920 companies in phases. Other states included in the deployment plan are Jammu and Kashmir (635 companies), Chhattisgarh (360 companies), Bihar (295 companies), Uttar Pradesh (252 companies), and Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Punjab (250 companies each).
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
Border Security Force (BSF)
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
National Security Guard (NSG)
The coordinated efforts between the Election Commission and CAPFs aim to create a secure environment, fostering public trust in the democratic process during the upcoming elections.
