Date:08/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/08/stories/2008040859900900.htm

National

West Bengal panchayat polls on May 11, 14 and 18

Special Correspondent

KOLKATA: The panchayat elections in West Bengal will be held on May 11, 14 and 18. The State government has issued a notification to this effect, a senior official of the State Election Commission said here on Monday.

Counting would be taken up on May 21.

Chief Secretary Amit Kiran Deb convened a meeting of District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to discuss preparations for the polls and matters related to security. Home Secretary Ashok Mohan Chakravarty was present.

The government has sought 100 companies of central forces but more may be required as the polls are being staggered over three days. The authorities would approach other States for additional security personnel if the need arises, Mr. Chakravarty has said.

The government is planning booth-wise deployment of armed forces in areas where Maoists have a presence.