Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Apr 26: The Election Commission of India has issued a stern warning to Kolkata Police and South 24 Parganas district police officials, cautioning them of strict disciplinary action if any negligence is found in handling cases of voter intimidation or the use of explosives to influence voters ahead of the upcoming polls.

The warning was conveyed during a high-level coordination meeting held in Kolkata on Sunday, attended by senior police officials from both Kolkata and South 24 Parganas. The meeting was led by special election observer Subrata Gupta, appointed by the Commission.

Officials stressed that Officers-in-Charge (OCs) and Inspectors-in-Charge (ICs) will now be directly accountable for any incidents involving voter intimidation or the use of explosives in their jurisdictions before or during polling. They were instructed to act swiftly and decisively in such situations, with clear warnings that failure to do so could result in severe disciplinary consequences.

According to sources in the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, the Commission has made it clear that no lapse will be tolerated and strict action will follow any proven negligence.

In a related development, the ECI recently replaced officers at three police stations, including both the OC and additional OC of Alipore Police Station, citing dereliction of duty. The station falls under the area where the residence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is located.

Earlier, the Commission also suspended five police officers, including a senior official from the Diamond Harbour police district in South 24 Parganas, and ordered departmental proceedings against them.

The strong measures come as West Bengal prepares for the second phase of voting scheduled for April 29, with the Commission aiming to ensure a free, fair, and intimidation-free electoral process.