The Election Commission of India (ECI) stated its zero-tolerance policy towards any intimidation of electoral officers in West Bengal. This warning was conveyed to a Trinamool Congress delegation during a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Delhi. The Commission’s stance follows disruptions and forceful actions during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state.
Reports of disruptions during the claims and objections sessions on the draft voters’ list have surfaced in various parts of West Bengal. The ECI-appointed special roll observer also faced disorder around their vehicle. The Commission emphasized that strict actions will be taken against those disrupting the statutory processes under the SIR.
The Commission directed the Trinamool Congress to ensure that its representatives refrain from threatening or intimidating election officials. Recent allegations have implicated two Trinamool Congress legislators and a state cabinet member in disruptions during the hearing sessions. The Commission also rejected objections to setting up polling booths in private housing complexes.
The Election Commission urged the West Bengal government to promptly release the enhanced honorarium for Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) as approved. It emphasized that the SIR exercise will proceed as planned, disregarding objections raised by the Trinamool Congress delegation.
