Amit Shah Hails Security Personnel for Violence-Free Bengal Polls

Amit Shah Praises Security Forces After Bengal Elections

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has praised security personnel for their role in conducting the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections without a single fatality. Addressing a Police Commemoration Day event in New Delhi on October 21, 2026, Shah credited the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) with helping ensure the peaceful conduct of the electoral process.

According to Shah, the outcome marked a significant achievement in a state where election-related violence has historically been a major concern. He congratulated the personnel deployed during the polls and described their work as an important contribution to safeguarding democracy.

What Did Amit Shah Say About Electoral Violence?

Shah said India had made progress in curbing electoral violence in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while West Bengal had continued to face challenges related to election-time violence.

Referring to the latest Assembly elections in Bengal, he said security personnel had ensured that polling was completed without a single fatality. He praised the CAPFs for their contribution, calling the result a notable success.

His remarks placed the spotlight on the role of security forces in maintaining order during elections and ensuring that democratic processes can take place safely.

CAPFs' Role in Protecting Democracy

The Central Armed Police Forces play an important role in internal security and are frequently deployed to support state authorities during elections, public events and other sensitive situations.

At the event, Shah said the country could not effectively safeguard democracy or ensure the smooth functioning of electoral processes without the contribution of these forces. He also acknowledged the challenges faced by personnel who remain on duty during festivals, protests and other occasions, often away from their families.

His remarks highlighted the importance of coordination, discipline and vigilance in managing security during major democratic exercises such as state Assembly elections.

Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Martyred Security Personnel

The remarks came during the Police Commemoration Day ceremony at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi. Shah paid tribute to police personnel who had lost their lives in the line of duty and acknowledged their contribution to the country's internal security.

He recalled the events of October 21, 1959, when 10 Central Reserve Police Force personnel were killed while resisting an attack by Chinese troops in the Hot Springs area of Ladakh. The incident is commemorated annually as Police Commemoration Day.

Shah said the sacrifices of police and security personnel had played a crucial role in protecting the country and maintaining public safety.

Shah Highlights Progress on Internal Security

During his address, Shah also discussed the government's assessment of India's internal security situation. He said that Kashmir, the Northeast and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism had witnessed improvements in peace and security.

He further referred to the government's claim that the country had achieved freedom from Naxalism by March 31, 2026. According to the figures cited in his address, more than 3,600 security personnel and nearly 13,700 civilians lost their lives in violence associated with Naxalism between 1981 and March 2026.

Government Sets Target for a Drug-Free India

Shah also reiterated the government's target of making India drug-free by December 31, 2029. He called on police forces across the country to work towards implementing the roadmap for a drug-free India.

During the ceremony, he flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally carrying the message of fighting drug abuse. The initiative was presented as part of broader efforts to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and strengthen action against substance abuse.

Why Shah's Remarks on Bengal Polls Matter

West Bengal has frequently witnessed political tensions and allegations of violence around elections. Shah's comments have drawn attention to the security arrangements for the latest Assembly polls and the role played by central forces.

His statement specifically highlighted the absence of election-related fatalities during the recently concluded election process. While this was presented by Shah as a major achievement, his remarks should be understood as his assessment of the security forces' performance.

The issue also underscores the wider importance of ensuring peaceful polling, protecting voters and election personnel, and maintaining public confidence in the democratic process.

Key Takeaways

• Amit Shah praised security personnel for the conduct of the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections.

• He said the elections were completed without a single fatality.

• Shah credited the Central Armed Police Forces with helping maintain security during the polls.

• He paid tribute to police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty at the National Police Memorial.

• He also discussed internal security and reiterated the target of making India drug-free by December 31, 2029.