West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal held a briefing in Kolkata regarding voter deletions and security for the 2026 state elections.

The measures come amid growing controversy over the integrity of the voter rolls and the potential for electoral violence in the region.

Agarwal addressed the removal of 5.8 million voter records [1]. He said the purge was necessary to remove duplicates and entries for people who are no longer present.

"We stand by the deletion of 58 lakh voters as it was necessary due to duplication and absence," Agarwal said [1].

To prevent violence and ensure transparency, the electoral office plans to implement total surveillance. Agarwal said that 100% of booths will be under surveillance [2]. He also said that Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) are being deployed to maintain order [2].

Beyond booth security, Agarwal is scrutinizing the use of state resources for political figures. He said the electoral office has requested a detailed report from the chief secretary regarding the number of security personnel assigned to private individuals [3].

This request follows concerns that excessive police security for certain political leaders could influence the electoral environment. The briefing, which took place in mid-April 2026, aimed to provide public clarity on these administrative decisions before the polls commence [3].

“"We stand by the deletion of 58 lakh voters as it was necessary due to duplication and absence."”

The removal of 5.8 million voters represents a significant shift in the electorate's composition, which often leads to accusations of voter suppression in highly contested Indian states. By pairing this purge with 100% booth surveillance and a review of political security details, the Chief Electoral Officer is attempting to project a neutral, high-security environment to mitigate claims of electoral fraud or intimidation.