In a significant push to strengthen law enforcement and internal security, the West Bengal government approved the formation of a dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), alongside a series of measures aimed at curbing drug trafficking, enhancing counter-terror capabilities, and improving women’s safety. The decisions were taken at a cabinet meeting held at Nabanna, the state secretariat. Officials said the newly constituted ANTF will function under the Director General of Police (DGP) and Inspector General of Police (IGP), focusing on dismantling drug networks across the state.
As part of the initiative, four specialised Anti-Narcotics Police Stations will be established in Durgapur, Malda, Kharagpur and Nadia to intensify district-level crackdowns on drug trafficking. To support these operations, the cabinet sanctioned the creation of 591 posts.
In a parallel move to bolster internal security, the state government has approved a major expansion of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The cabinet cleared the creation of 461 regular posts and five contractual positions for software developers to strengthen surveillance and intelligence capabilities against extremist threats.
Women’s safety also featured prominently in the cabinet’s agenda. To expedite the handling of complaints related to violence and harassment against women, 68 new posts have been approved in the West Bengal State Commission on Atrocities Against Women. Officials believe this will significantly improve response time and legal support for victims.
Additionally, the cabinet approved the appointment of six Law Officers under the West Bengal Legal Service Cadre to streamline administrative and legal processes. Two more Law Officer posts were sanctioned for the municipal corporations of Asansol and Durgapur.
Meanwhile, the state government expressed concern over the flood situation in several districts due to continuous rainfall. MLAs from affected areas have been directed to immediately return to their constituencies. The Chief Minister has instructed them to oversee relief and rescue operations, including visits to local Block Development Officer (BDO) offices and affected regions.
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