New Delhi: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar delivered a stern reprimand to West Bengal’s top police and administrative officials during a high-level review of election preparedness, warning of zero tolerance for negligence and strict action against any post-poll violence.
On March 9, 2026, CEC Kumar held back-to-back meetings in the state, first with representatives of all political parties in the morning, followed by intensive sessions with district magistrates (DMs), superintendents of police (SPs), police commissioners, and other senior officers. He singled out Director General of Police (Law and Order) Vineet Goyal for sharp criticism, particularly over the absence of a Narcotics Advisory Board in West Bengal — unlike other states — and raised concerns involving the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the RBI, airport authorities, customs, and excise departments.
In a no-nonsense tone, the CEC declared, “No relaxation will be given in cases of negligence, whether it is a district magistrate or a police commissioner.” He stressed accountability, ordering officials to sit and assuring them that the commission holds all records. Emphasising digital documentation of every action, he warned, “If there is any violence after the elections, strict departmental action will be taken.”
The full Election Commission bench later engaged with district magistrates to further assess poll arrangements. Sources indicated Goyal faced significant heat during discussions on the narcotics board issue, particularly regarding the management of drug-related violence and its potential impact on the upcoming elections.
The strong directives come amid heightened scrutiny of West Bengal’s electoral machinery ahead of assembly elections, with the CEC underscoring the need for peaceful, fair voting and holding officials personally responsible for law and order. This tough stance signals the Election Commission’s resolve to ensure free and transparent polls in a politically-charged state.