KOLKATA – The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered fresh polling to be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in four specific polling booths within the Falta assembly segment of West Bengal. The decision comes after the ECI received reports of "subversion of the democratic process" and various other irregularities during the initial voting conducted on Monday, May 13, as part of the fourth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The affected booths, identified as numbers 34, 35, 36, and 37, are all located within the Falta assembly segment, which falls under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency. The original polling on May 13 was marred by several incidents that led to the ECI's intervention. Authorities noted evidence suggesting a breakdown of order and violations of electoral procedures that compromised the integrity of the voting process in these specific locations.

The ECI's directive underscores its commitment to upholding the fairness and transparency of the electoral system. The order for a re-poll signifies a decisive step to address the reported infractions and ensure that eligible voters in these booths have an opportunity to cast their ballots in an environment free from coercion or manipulation. This action aligns with the Commission's mandate to conduct free and fair elections across the country.

Following the initial reports and a subsequent review, the ECI took swift action, not only ordering the re-poll but also initiating disciplinary measures against officials found to be remiss in their duties.

Key details regarding the incident and subsequent actions include:

  • Original Polling Date: Monday, May 13, 2024 (Phase 4 of Lok Sabha elections).
  • Re-polling Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
  • Affected Locations: Polling booths 34, 35, 36, and 37 within the Falta Assembly segment.
  • Constituency: Falta is part of the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, West Bengal.
  • Reason for Re-poll: Reports of "subversion of the democratic process" and various electoral irregularities.
  • Disciplinary Actions:
    • Several police officers, including an officer-in-charge and a sub-inspector, have been suspended.
    • A sector officer has also been suspended in connection with the incidents.
    • Cases have been lodged against three individuals pertaining to the irregularities observed during the May 13 polling.

The fresh polling on May 21 will involve a repeat of the entire voting process for the Lok Sabha elections in these four specific booths. Voters registered at these polling stations will be required to cast their votes again. Strict security measures are expected to be put in place to prevent any recurrence of the incidents reported during the previous polling date.

The outcome of the re-polling will be integrated with the votes from other polling stations in the Diamond Harbour constituency. The final counting of votes for all Lok Sabha constituencies across India, including Diamond Harbour, is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4, 2024. This ECI decision serves as a clear message about the unwavering resolve to protect the sanctity of the ballot box and maintain public trust in the electoral process.