Kolkata, January 20. Amid rising concerns over sporadic violence in West Bengal ahead of elections, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose has issued a comprehensive advisory to law enforcement authorities. The move comes as opposition parties intensify accusations against the state government and police for failing to maintain order.
Recent incidents reveal a disturbing pattern: anti-social and disruptive elements can rapidly mobilize hundreds of aggressive protesters, plunging ordinary citizens into chaos. These flash events disrupt daily life, create public safety hazards, and pose direct threats to lives and property.
In his detailed guidelines, the Governor urged competent authorities to bolster intelligence mechanisms. He emphasized seamless coordination between central and state intelligence agencies, alongside local informant networks, to preempt threats.
Law enforcement must establish real-time intelligence gathering and analysis systems, the advisory states. This proactive approach will provide early warnings of potential law-and-order breakdowns. Authorities should scrutinize sensitive and inflammatory issues, focusing on hotspots that have previously incited public unrest.
West Bengal’s porous international borders demand special attention, the Governor noted. With cross-border linkages, joint intelligence operations between the Centre and state are crucial. Vigilant patrolling, community engagement to build trust, and sustained alertness form the bedrock of prevention.
Preventive measures must be swift and decisive. Immediate action against instigators, coordination with local leaders to defuse tensions, and heightened surveillance in vulnerable districts are non-negotiable. Response to distress calls should be instantaneous, with restraint exercised during crowd control operations.
The Governor’s proactive intervention underscores the urgency of safeguarding democratic processes. As elections near, these guidelines aim to restore public confidence and ensure peaceful polling across the state.