Agartala, October 22: The Left Front has called for advance security arrangements for the upcoming Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and other local body elections, demanding central paramilitary forces at every polling station to ensure that candidates can contest freely and voters exercise their franchise without fear.
Former minister and Left Front convenor Manik Dey outlined the demands after a delegation of opposition leaders met Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha ahead of the announcement of the election schedule. He said the delegation had urged the government to initiate preparations early rather than wait until the polling programme was formally declared.
According to Dey, the opposition leaders sought adequate security in sensitive areas at least seven days before polling, along with regular patrolling and effective monitoring to prevent intimidation and electoral disturbances.
The delegation also demanded that opposition candidates be allowed to submit nomination papers without obstruction and conduct their campaigns freely. It stressed that ensuring a safe environment for voters, candidates and polling agents was essential for credible elections.
Dey said the Chief Minister listened to the concerns and responded positively. He added that Saha had indicated his willingness to take up the matter with the appropriate authorities, including the Centre and the Election Commission. However, no final decision on the deployment of central forces has been announced.
Citing the experience of Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council and village committee elections, Dey said central forces had helped maintain order, enabling polling agents to complete their duties and return home safely in most cases.
Apart from electoral security, the delegation raised concerns over the impact of national highway construction and expansion on established commercial centres. Ranirbazar and other markets were specifically mentioned as areas requiring protection from disruption caused by infrastructure projects.
The Left Front urged the government to explore alternatives, including bypasses around market areas wherever feasible, to safeguard local businesses without obstructing development. Dey said the Chief Minister had agreed to discuss the issue with the concerned departments and relevant authorities in New Delhi.
The delegation’s demands have placed the focus on advance election preparedness and measures to protect commercial establishments affected by highway projects.