West Bengal Election Preparations: EC Suspends Officials Ahead of Polls
Seven AEROs suspended for misconduct, negligence, and misuse of SIR powers
West Bengal, Feb 16 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken strict administrative action in West Bengal, suspending seven officials immediately for serious violations during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. All suspended personnel were serving as Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs).
According to the Commission, the officials were found guilty of serious misconduct, including violating legal provisions, demonstrating negligence in updating the voter list, and misusing statutory powers associated with the SIR process.
The Election Commission has directed the state’s Chief Secretary, Nandini Chakraborty, to initiate prompt disciplinary proceedings against the suspended officers through their respective departments and submit compliance reports.
Booth level officers, electoral registration officers, and their assistants play a key role in maintaining accurate voter records and ensuring fair elections. The suspension underscores the Commission’s zero tolerance approach toward any lapses affecting transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
This move comes amid heightened tensions between the West Bengal government and the Election Commission over the Special Intensive Revision, signaling the Commission’s firm stance on maintaining election credibility.
