Conducting free, fair and peaceful elections in the Maoist-affected districts of Purulia, Bankura and West Midnapore has always been a big challenge for the Election Commission. For the coming Assembly election, the Election Commission has decided to use helicopters for ensuring foolproof security and conducting violence-free elections. The helicopters will not only be used for
air-surveillance but they will also carry poll personnel to their destinations, some of which are located in remote and difficult terrain. The Union home ministry has cleared the despatch of five Indian Air Force helicopters for West Bengal. These 20-seater choppers will reach the state by April 15.
Elections in West Midnapore, Bankura, Purulia and some seats of Burdwan will be held in the fifth phase on May 7 but the elections in 14 Assembly constituencies, which are located in what is known as Jangalmahal area of these three districts, will be held separately in the sixth and final phase on May 10.
The Indian Air Force helicopters will remain in the state till May 10. Accepting the Election Commission’s request, the Union home ministry is also sending landmine-proof vehicles and satellite phones to preempt any Maoist attack.
An EC official revealed that the West Bengal government had with the approval of the Election Commission, sought 15 helicopters, 30 landmine-proof vehicles and 75 satellite phones.
“However, the Centre is sending 5 choppers, 15 landmine-proof vehicles and 25 satellite phones because it felt that the state government’s request was exaggerated,” he added.