Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal raised concerns over the Election Commission’s decision to deploy eight companies of Gujarat’s State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) in Delhi ahead of the February 5 Assembly elections. Kejriwal questioned why forces from Punjab Police, previously tasked with his security, were replaced. Responding to the claims, Delhi Police clarified that 220 companies from across India, including CRPF, BSF, CISF, and police from ten states, were deployed in phases to ensure law and order during the polls.
Sources further explained that 250 companies were requested to manage polling station security, border checks, and quick response teams. Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi defended the deployment as routine, accusing Kejriwal of selective criticism and ignorance of Election Commission norms. Meanwhile, Punjab’s DGP confirmed that the withdrawal of their police was in line with EC and Delhi Police directives.
The controversy arises as Delhi gears up for its Assembly elections, with polling scheduled for February 5 and results to be declared on February 8. Security measures, including inter-state coordination, are in full swing as the capital prepares for the crucial electoral event.