The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken decisive action in Punjab, directing the state's Director General of Police (DGP) to conduct an urgent investigation into all police cases registered during the Model Code of Conduct period for the Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll. The probe must be completed within a strict 36-hour timeframe.
Special DGP Appointed for Swift Investigation
In response to the EC's directive, Ram Singh, Special DGP of ADGP Technical Support Services, has been appointed to lead the comprehensive review. The investigation will cover not only Tarn Taran district but also neighboring districts, examining all cases registered since the MCC came into effect in October.
The development comes just days before the crucial Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll scheduled for November 11, with campaigning having concluded on Sunday evening.
Suspension of SSP and Concerns Over Police Impartiality
This urgent investigation follows the significant action taken by the Election Commission on November 8, when Dr Ravjot Kaur Grewal, the SSP of Tarn Taran, was suspended from her position. She has been replaced by Surinder Lamba, former SSP of Hoshiarpur and Mansa.
The suspension came after the ECI took serious note of lapses in impartial conduct during the MCC period. A report submitted by the Police Observer to the Election Commission highlighted what it described as 'coordinated and concerted actions by the State police' involving not just Tarn Taran Police but also neighboring districts including Amritsar, Batala, Moga and other adjoining districts.
ECI's Strict Directions and Compliance Requirements
In a letter dated November 8 addressed to the Punjab DGP, Chief Electoral Officer Punjab Sibin C conveyed the Commission's firm instructions. The EC has specifically directed the review of all alleged wrongful registration of cases and arrests during the Model Code of Conduct period by a senior officer not below the rank of ADGP.
The Commission has mandated that necessary action be taken as per law within the 36-hour deadline. Furthermore, the Chief Electoral Officer has emphasized that a compliance report detailing action taken must be submitted to his office for presentation to the Election Commission of India.
This unprecedented move underscores the Election Commission's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections in Punjab, particularly addressing concerns about the impartiality of law enforcement during the crucial election period.
