The Election Commission of India has taken a stern view of a violent incident targeting one of its officials in West Bengal, directing the state's top police officer to submit a comprehensive report on the matter.
EC's Deadline for Police Action Report
The Election Commission (EC) has formally asked the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal to provide a detailed action-taken report by 5 pm on January 6. This directive is in response to the attack on C Murugan, the roll observer for South 24-Parganas district, which occurred on December 30.
The poll panel's communication explicitly instructed the police chief to include all measures taken to identify and fix responsibility for the security failure. Expressing strong disapproval, the EC's note stated that the incident "reflects serious lapses on the part of the police administration."
Details of the Magrahat Incident
The assault took place in Magrahat area when Murugan was on a field visit. According to the EC's examination of reports, adequate security arrangements were not made for the observer's visit, even though advance information was provided to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and the Superintendent of Police (SP).
"Murugan was compelled to move through sensitive areas without proper police protection," the Commission noted, highlighting the grave oversight. During the attack, a mob targeted the official, resulting in damage to his vehicle. Following the event, the local police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against 40 unidentified persons.
New Security Protocol for Observers
In the wake of this breach, the Election Commission has issued a fresh mandate to prevent any recurrence. The panel has directed that henceforth, any roll observer or special observer on a field visit must be accompanied by a senior police officer.
This new protocol aims to ensure the safety and security of election officials who are tasked with overseeing the integrity of the electoral roll process, especially in sensitive regions. The EC's firm stance underscores its zero-tolerance policy towards intimidation of its officers and the imperative of robust security coordination with state authorities.
