Kolkata, March 24 The state administration issued strict directives to all government departments, employees, and officials in West Bengal on Tuesday, making it clear that "any unrest will not be tolerated" during the upcoming Assembly elections.
The instructions were issued as part of the state and the Election Commission of India's coordinated efforts to ensure a free and peaceful electoral process.
The communication emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards any disruption, and directed officials to strictly adhere to a six-point guideline aimed at maintaining law and order during the polls.
The directives call for a violence-free election, clearly stating that violence in any form will not be tolerated. Authorities have also stressed ensuring a fear-free environment, where voters are not subjected to intimidation.
"No provocation will be allowed during the election process, and any attempt to disturb the atmosphere must be dealt with firmly," a senior bureaucrat said.
Special emphasis has been laid on preventing electoral malpractices such as bogus voting, with officials asked to remain vigilant.
The guidelines also mandated measures to prohibit booth capturing, booth jamming, and any unlawful gathering at polling stations.
Additionally, stringent action has been mandated against any attempt to obstruct voters, including intimidation, preventing them from stepping out to vote or "source jamming".
"All such incidents must invite strict action in accordance with the law," the official said.
The administration has directed that these instructions be communicated to every government employee, with departments required to send compliance reports to a designated email ID.
Meanwhile, additional central forces are being deployed across the state to ensure there are no security lapses.
