The Election Commission of India has ordered a fresh round of administrative reshuffle in West Bengal, transferring 13 IAS and 20 IPS officers ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state. The move comes days after the poll schedule was announced on March 15, as the Commission steps up efforts to ensure a free and fair voting process in the state.
Officials said such transfers are part of standard election practice. The aim is to prevent officers from staying too long in the same post and to reduce the chances of local influence during elections.
In total, around 60 officers have been shifted in this round. Among them, 17 officers have been deputed as election observers and sent to other states. These observers will oversee polling arrangements and ensure that election rules are followed strictly.
Several IAS officers have also been assigned as district magistrates. They will double up as district election officers and handle key responsibilities such as managing polling stations, supervising staff and ensuring smooth counting of votes.
The reshuffle also includes changes in the police setup. IPS officers have been moved to new positions to strengthen law and order during the elections. Security arrangements are a key focus area in West Bengal, which has seen tense elections in the past.
Two of the IPS officers - Murlidhar Sharma and Waquar Raza - were named poll observers for Tamil Nadu. Sharma is the commissioner of Bidhannagar City Police, while Raza took over as the head of the Siliguri commissionerate a couple of days ago.
The Election Commission has the authority to transfer officials connected with election work. These decisions are aimed at maintaining neutrality and building public trust in the electoral process.
The reshuffle comes after the announcement of the Assembly election schedule by the Election Commission. Polls will be held in four states, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Assam, as well as the Union Territory of Puducherry.
In West Bengal, voting will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while the counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. Earlier, several officers were shifted as part of election preparedness.
Also Read: EC Removes West Bengal Chief Secy, Top Police Brass Ahead Of Polls
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