History of the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing (WB-CCW)

The inception of the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing (WB-CCW) was driven by the imperative to centralize administrative oversight and bolster operational efficiency in addressing cyber threats across the region. Proposed by the West Bengal Police Directorate, the initiative was formalized through Notification No. 2791-PL/PB/14M-04/15 dated October 17, 2023. This pivotal step involved the establishment of 188 new positions and the transfer of 305 existing roles from four autonomous units within the West Bengal Police.

Following a brief period of suspension pending further directives (Notification No. 2558-PL/PB/14M-04/15 dated November 7, 2023), a refined proposal was articulated under Memo No. 50/ORG dated January 19, 2024. Subsequently, after meticulous consideration, the Governor mandated the implementation of WB-CCW in accordance with the original October 17, 2023 notification, albeit with specific modifications.

Under these directives, the administrative functions of the Cyber Patrol Cell and Cyber Crime Cell were retained within the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), West Bengal. Concurrently, the oversight of the Cyber Forensic and Digital Evidence Examiners Laboratory (CFDEEL) unit was transferred to the Additional Director General (ADG) of WB-CCW, while the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) was integrated into WB-CCW operations.

Additionally, 34 Cyber Crime Police Stations, previously under the jurisdiction of various Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, were placed under WB-CCW's supervision, consolidating regional cyber crime management efforts.

WB-CCW commenced operations with 188 designated positions, encompassing both permanent roles and IT personnel engaged for specialized functions, as stipulated in the October 17, 2023 notification. Furthermore, while 175 positions identified in the original notification remained under CID, WB, 130 positions were allocated to WB-CCW, marking a strategic reallocation of resources aimed at enhancing capabilities in cyber crime prevention and investigation.

This initiative represents a significant advancement in West Bengal's strategy to streamline response mechanisms and fortify defenses against digital threats. By aligning operational structures and optimizing resource distribution, WB-CCW aims to safeguard digital ecosystems, ensuring a resilient cyber security framework for the state's populace and institutions alike.