The Election Commission of India has ordered the immediate withdrawal of state-provided security cover for politicians and individuals facing criminal charges in West Bengal. The directive, issued to the District Magistrates, also asked them to assess rank and threat perception, making them ineligible for such protection.

Officials say the move is aimed at preventing misuse of government security, which in some cases was allegedly being used to intimidate voters. District magistrates and police have been instructed to act swiftly, with additional orders to arrest those accused in non-bailable cases within ten days. The letter said that a detailed list of all persons currently receiving security, complete with names and designations, be submitted immediately for each Assembly constituency and police district.

A deadline has been set for furnishing this information to the Commission. Furthermore, the State Police Nodal Officer has been instructed to submit a comprehensive security report by this afternoon. The decision follows recent violent incidents in Malda and other districts, prompting concerns over the law and order situation of the state.