West Bengal Assembly Elections: Major Arms and Explosives Seized Ahead of Polls

Significant Seizures in West Bengal Ahead of Elections

Kolkata: The Election Commission announced on Tuesday that during a month-long operation in West Bengal, authorities have confiscated 390 firearms and 598 rounds of ammunition in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for April 29.

In an effort to manage licensed firearms, a total of 41,706 out of 52,869 registered weapons have been surrendered, according to an official from the Election Commission.

Additionally, over 222.57 kg of explosives were seized during the raids that began on March 15 throughout the state.

The official reported, "We have seized 390 firearms along with 1,348 crude bombs to date."

To prevent voter inducements, enforcement agencies have conducted extensive operations, resulting in the seizure of items valued at Rs 532.88 crore, which includes cash, liquor, narcotics, and other incentives since February 26.

A comprehensive security framework has been implemented in areas preparing for the elections, featuring enhanced surveillance and proactive measures.

To address unauthorized political advertisements and the defacement of public and private properties, the Commission has successfully cleared over 23.49 lakh instances of such violations across the state.

The first phase of the elections for the 294-member West Bengal assembly took place on April 23, with the second phase set for April 29. The counting of votes will occur on May 4.