The Election Commission has retrieved 390 weapons and 598 rounds of ammo in Bengal through raids since March 15.

The Election Commission of India has reported that a significant number of arms and ammunition have been seized during their raids in West Bengal, where the final phase of the assembly elections will be held on April 29. As per the latest updates, a total of 390 arms and 598 rounds of ammunition have been recovered so far, along with 1,348 crude bombs. In addition to this, the authorities have also taken measures to regulate the use of licensed arms by asking owners to deposit their weapons.

Out of the total 52,869 licensed weapons, 41,706 have already been deposited, according to an official from the Election Commission. The raids, which began on March 15, have also led to the seizure of explosives weighing over 222.57 kg from different parts of the state. The aim of these raids is to ensure a fair and peaceful election process by curbing any kind of violence or illegal activities.

To prevent any inducements being offered to voters, the enforcement agencies have conducted extensive seizures valued at Rs 532.88 crore, including cash, liquor, drugs, narcotics, and freebies, since February 26. The Election Commission has also established a multi-layered security grid in the poll-bound areas, with intensified surveillance and preventive action. In addition to this, the Commission has also taken strict actions against the defacement of public and private properties by removing over 23.49 lakh instances of unauthorized political advertisements across the state.

This step has been taken to maintain the sanctity of the election process and to discourage any illegal means of campaigning. The first phase of the elections for the 294-member West Bengal assembly was held on April 23, while the second and final phase will take place on April 29. The votes will be counted on May 4.

As the state gears up for the final phase of the elections, the Election Commission is committed to ensuring a free and fair electoral process for the people of West Bengal. In other news, Orissa POST, the leading English daily in Odisha, brings you the latest updates on the state's political, social, and economic affairs. Stay tuned to stay informed.