Amidst reports of violence and disruptions during the Lok Sabha elections in Manipur, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has announced repolling at 11 booths in the inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat. Discover the measures taken to uphold democratic integrity.
The electoral landscape in Manipur has been marked by challenges, with incidents of violence and disruptions casting a shadow over the democratic process. In response to these concerns, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has taken decisive action by ordering repolling at 11 booths in the inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat.
Security has been heightened in the region to prevent any untoward incidents, particularly in light of the violence reported on April 19. Miscreants reportedly resorted to extreme measures, including opening fire and destroying electronic voting machines (EVMs), prompting the Election Commission to declare the initial polls void.
The decision to conduct repolling underscores the commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections, essential for upholding the principles of democracy. Manipur witnessed a voter turnout of 69.18%, reflecting the electorate’s eagerness to exercise their franchise despite challenges.
The affected polling stations, including Moirangkampu Sajeb Upper Primary School and S. Ibobi Primary School (East Wing), are spread across various constituencies, necessitating a coordinated effort to facilitate smooth voting procedures.
In light of the Election Commission’s directive under Sections 58(2) and 58A(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, fresh polls will be conducted on April 22, 2024, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This decision aims to rectify the anomalies observed during the initial polling and restore confidence in the electoral process.
Incidents of violence, such as those witnessed on April 19, serve as reminders of the importance of safeguarding the democratic ethos. It is imperative to address security concerns and ensure the safety of voters and polling personnel.
As Manipur prepares for repolling, stakeholders must collaborate to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process and reaffirm the principles of democracy.
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