EC reviews border security ahead of Bengal polls

Ahead of the six-phase assembly polls in West Bengal, the Election Commission on Monday reviewed the law and order situation along the inter-state and international borders in the state, a poll panel official said.

The full bench of the poll watchdog led by Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi held a video conference with officials of Bengal and adjoining states during the day on ensuring fool-proof security along the inter-state and international borders in poll bound Bengal and Assam, said additional chief electoral officer Dibyendu Sarkar.

"Internal law and order security was not discussed. The key points were on 'naka' or check points along the borders, inter-border movement of miscreants and movement of arms and weapons. There were detailed discussions on control and monitoring," Sarkar told the media here.

He said officials of the union home ministry were also present.

"We have requisitioned three helicopters for Junglemahal area from the home ministry," Sarkar informed.

For the preparations in Bengal where the first phase of polls will be held on April 4, Sarkar said 99,523 electronic voting machines (EVMs) and 7,176 VVPATs would be required.

For the second phase, 130 nominations have been received so far for the 26 assembly constituencies.