NIA Deploys Officers to Curb Bomb Threats in Bengal Phase 2 Polls

Kolkata (IANS): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will deploy officers in plain clothes across 142 Assembly constituencies on Wednesday as West Bengal enters its second phase of voting. The deployment focuses on hyper-sensitive regions identified during the 2021 elections to prevent the use of crude bombs during and after polling.

NIA Takes Over Explosives Probe

Following instructions from the Election Commission of India (ECI), the NIA officially took over an investigation on Monday involving the recovery of 79 crude bombs and other incriminating materials.

The agency re-registered an FIR originally filed by the Uttarkashi Police Station under the Bhangar division of the Kolkata Police. Investigators believe the large stockpile of explosives, seized during a police operation in Bhangar, was intended to threaten life and property during the election cycle.

Administrative Action and Security Measures

In a separate development, the ECI removed Sourav Hazra, the Joint Block Development Officer of Falta block, following allegations of biased conduct. The commission transferred Hazra to Purulia and appointed Rama Bhattacharya as his replacement.

The second phase will operate under extensive security protocols:

• Force Deployment: 2,407 companies of central forces, including CAPF and the India Reserve Battalion, will secure the constituencies.
• Surveillance: The ECI has mandated 100% webcasting across all polling stations to ensure transparency.
• Local Support: State and Kolkata police personnel will assist central forces in maintaining order.

The counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections will take place on May 4.