Due to a scheduling conflict with the first phase of the state Assembly elections, Calcutta University has postponed its undergraduate first-semester theory examination that was originally set for April 23. University registrar Debasis Das confirmed that the exam cannot take place on that date, and a revised schedule will be announced later.

According to a university official, the postponed examination is tentatively expected to be conducted on April 25.

The first-semester theory examinations are scheduled to begin on April 10 and were initially planned to continue until April 24. However, uncertainty remains regarding exams after April 13. During a recent meeting, several college principals reported that their campuses have been occupied by central security forces deployed for election duties.

While exams between April 10 and April 13 are expected to proceed as planned, those scheduled afterward may face disruptions. The university is currently considering alternative arrangements.

Earlier, there had been a proposal to use unaffected sections of college buildings for conducting exams. However, officials indicated that this may not be feasible if entire campuses are taken over by security forces.

Reports suggest that approximately 2,500 companies of central armed police forces may be deployed in West Bengal for each phase of the elections on April 23 and April 29. These forces operate under the Union home ministry and include multiple paramilitary units.

One option under consideration is to hold examinations on university campuses instead of colleges. However, this plan faces challenges, as many college teachers have expressed reluctance to travel for invigilation duties.