The Election Commission of India has decided to install GPS tracking systems in vehicles assigned to Central Armed Police Forces personnel being deployed in West Bengal for the upcoming Assembly elections. The move is aimed at strengthening monitoring and ensuring effective deployment of forces on the ground.

Deployment of CAPF units will take place in two phases. In the first phase, beginning from the 1st of next month, 240 companies will be sent to the state. This will include 110 companies of the CRPF, 55 of the BSF, 21 of the CISF, 27 of the ITBP and 27 of the SSB.

The second phase of deployment will start from 10 March, with another 240 companies to be stationed across West Bengal. Of these, 120 companies will be from the CRPF, 65 from the BSF, 16 from the CISF, 20 from the ITBP and 19 from the SSB.

The Commission has directed that the armed forces undertake area domination exercises and familiarisation drills to better understand the geography and local conditions before polling begins.

According to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal, the GPS tracking system will allow central observers appointed by the Election Commission to closely monitor the movement and positioning of CAPF personnel throughout the election period.

The decision comes in response to complaints raised during previous elections regarding ineffective deployment and lack of oversight of central forces.