EC Takes Strict Action Against Basirhat AERO Over Electoral Roll Irregularities
The Election Commission of India has taken decisive action against electoral irregularities in West Bengal's Basirhat constituency, suspending the Assistant Electoral Registration Officer and Block Development Officer of Basirhat-II, Sumitra Pratim Pradhan. The suspension comes after an investigation revealed serious violations of electoral procedures that compromised the integrity of the electoral process.
Unilateral Appointments Without Formal Notification
The core issue centers around Sumitra Pratim Pradhan's unilateral decision to appoint 11 individuals as "Additional AEROs" without following the mandatory legal procedures. These appointments were made without formal notification under Section 13C of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, which establishes the proper framework for such designations. The Election Commission has characterized this oversight as a "grave lapse" that represents a clear violation of statutory provisions governing electoral administration.
All Actions Declared Null and Void
In a significant move to rectify the procedural errors, the Election Commission has declared all actions and hearings conducted by the 11 unofficially appointed officials to be null and void ab initio. This legal term means these actions are considered legally void from their very beginning, effectively erasing any decisions or proceedings that occurred under their authority. The Commission emphasized that this measure is essential to preserve the sanctity and fairness of the electoral process in the region.
Corrective Measures and Fresh Proceedings
To restore proper electoral procedures, the Election Commission has mandated comprehensive corrective actions:
- All hearings and statutory work previously handled by the 11 officials must be conducted afresh
- These proceedings must follow the correct legal procedures as outlined in electoral laws
- The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer and Chief Secretary have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these orders
- Both officials must provide a status update on disciplinary actions within 48 hours
This directive ensures that any electoral work affected by the irregular appointments will be redone through proper channels, maintaining transparency and legal compliance.
Broader Implications for Electoral Integrity
The Election Commission's swift action in this case demonstrates its commitment to upholding electoral integrity across India. By suspending the responsible officer and invalidating improper appointments, the EC sends a clear message about the importance of following established electoral protocols. This incident highlights the critical role proper notification procedures play in maintaining the credibility of India's democratic processes, particularly as the country prepares for future elections.
The Basirhat case serves as a reminder that electoral officials must strictly adhere to legal frameworks, and any deviations from established procedures will face immediate corrective action from the Election Commission to protect the fundamental rights of voters and candidates alike.
