Election Commission's Full Bench Conducts Stern Review of Bengal's Poll Preparedness
The Election Commission's full bench commenced a rigorous review of West Bengal's election preparedness on Monday, directing sharp criticism at senior state government officials, along with officers from the airport and the Reserve Bank of India. Sources within the commission revealed that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar delivered blunt warnings, emphasizing accountability in the digital age.
CEC Issues Direct Warnings to State Officials
"Everything has a digital footprint. Whether it is a DM, an SP or a police commissioner, no one will be spared if negligence is detected," a source quoted CEC Gyanesh Kumar as stating during the meeting. The CEC reportedly spoke with particular firmness to Bengal's Director General of Law and Order, Vineet Goyal, even instructing him to "sit down" while he was responding to an EC query, underscoring the commission's no-nonsense approach.
Another source indicated that Kumar warned officials of severe consequences if deliberate discrepancies or negligence are proven, suggesting they could be placed in a position "from which there is no return." The commission raised specific concerns, questioning why the state lacked a 'Narcotics Advisory Board' and instructing the state excise department to ensure alcohol production does not exceed normal levels during the election period.
CM Mamata Banerjee Launches Fierce Counterattack
Later in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hit back at what she termed as "threats" to state officials, speaking from her Esplanade protest site. "The CEC threatened our officers today. I want to tell him that courage is good but false bravado is not," Banerjee declared. Referring to the CEC as "Vanish," she questioned his authority post-elections, stating, "I heard he threatened officials with action after May. Where will you be after May? It's 'His Master's Voice'. You are playing a damaged record. The people of Bengal will not bow down."
Banerjee also issued a warning to sections of the bureaucracy, cautioning them against acting under political pressure. "Records are being maintained. If BJP goes tomorrow, where will you go? I will be the first to transfer you," she asserted, claiming that previously neutral institutions were now exhibiting partisan behavior. She highlighted the toll on election staff, noting, "BLOs, EROs and DEOs worked hard for SIR and many ended their lives under pressure. About 190 people have died, yet you say nothing. You will face the reply for this injustice."
EC Scrutinizes Airport and RBI Oversight
The commission's review extended beyond state officials, with airport authorities facing criticism for not reporting illegal transactions. They were directed to submit an immediate report on the matter. Additionally, the RBI was questioned for its failure to adequately monitor cash circulation, a critical aspect of ensuring fair electoral practices.
In a notable moment, the CEC reportedly urged officers to take immediate action by quoting the 1976 Rod Stewart classic, "Tonight's the night," emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Responding to this, CM Banerjee compared the CEC to "Spiderman" and a "super god," while further questioning the extent of his power after the election period concludes in May.
The exchange underscores the heightened tensions and rigorous scrutiny surrounding election preparations in West Bengal, with both the Election Commission and the state government adopting firm stances on issues of governance, accountability, and political neutrality.
