The Centre has provided Y-plus security cover to the State Chief Electoral Officer, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, and deployed central armed forces at the CEO’s office. (Image: X/@CEOWestBengal)

Security at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal has been significantly enhanced following concerns raised about safety nearly a month ago. Acting on these inputs, the Centre has provided Y-plus security cover to the State Chief Electoral Officer, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, and deployed central armed forces at the CEO’s office.

According to Election Commission sources, central security agencies had proposed full Y-plus protection for the CEO. However, Agarwal reportedly expressed reservations during a meeting with central security officials, stating that he preferred the presence of only two central personnel. “What will I do with so much security?” he reportedly said. Central security officials responded that they were acting on explicit instructions to provide Y-plus cover.

Commission sources said Agarwal added that the security arrangement could be reviewed during his visits to districts and noted that he already has protection from the Kolkata Police.

As part of the revised security plan, central security personnel have been stationed on the third floor of the Bama/Lorri Building, where the CEO’s office is currently located. Their responsibilities include monitoring the entry and exit of individuals. When the CEO’s office shifts to a new building in the coming days, central forces will be deployed at the reception area to regulate access. These decisions were finalised during meetings between Commission officials and central security agencies.

Election Commission sources cited multiple instances of unrest around the CEO’s office to justify the enhanced security. According to officials, the CEO and other senior election functionaries have faced gheraos and aggressive protests on several occasions, particularly during politically sensitive exercises such as voter list revision, electoral roll verification, and election preparedness activities.

Sources said that during some protests, senior officials were prevented from moving freely for extended periods. There were also reports of heated exchanges, pushing, and attempts to force entry into the premises. While no serious injuries were officially reported, these incidents were flagged internally as serious security breaches for a constitutional authority.

Sources added that the decision to deploy central forces is preventive in nature and aimed at ensuring the uninterrupted functioning and institutional independence of the Election Commission.