Amid rising post-poll tensions in different parts of Asansol over the last two days, where several Trinamool Congress party offices were vandalised and set on fire, the district administration, police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have launched a joint crackdown to restore normalcy.
Addressing a joint press conference on Wednesday, Asansol Durgapur Police Commissioner Pranab Kumar, District Magistrate S. Poonambalam, and CAPF District Coordinator Sunil Kumar Singh made it clear that there will be zero tolerance towards any form of violence in the post-election period.
The Police Commissioner informed that over 200 people have already been detained in connection with incidents of arson, vandalism and clashes reported from various areas. Multiple cases have been registered, and further arrests are likely.
He stated that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in violence, and warned that attempts to alter the status quo of political offices, administrative buildings or religious places will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
District Magistrate S. Poonambalam said that while the election process in the district was conducted peacefully, maintaining the same level of peace in the post-poll phase is now the top priority, in line with directives from the Election Commission of India. He reiterated that any attempt to disrupt law and order will invite stringent action.
To control the situation, joint deployment of police and CAPF personnel has been intensified across sensitive areas. A joint control room has also been set up to monitor developments round the clock, with senior officials supervising operations on the ground.
CAPF coordinator Sunil Kumar Singh emphasised that polling was conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner, and appealed to the public to maintain the same discipline now. He urged people to refrain from violence, vandalism and arson, and cooperate with the administration.
Authorities have also asked citizens to report any untoward incidents by dialling 100 or 112, or contacting the nearest police station.
The administration has issued a strong appeal to all sections of society to maintain peace and harmony, warning that any attempt to disturb normalcy will be dealt with firmly.
(Inputs from Anil Giri)