Kolkata Police Constable Suspended for Alleged Voter Influence in Postal Ballot
Synopsis
A Kolkata Police constable faces suspension for allegedly trying to influence postal ballot voters. This serious allegation highlights the Election Commission's commitment to ensuring fair elections in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
Constable suspended for alleged voter influence.
Serious allegations deemed by police sources.
Suspension until the end of the voting period.
Election Commission's commitment to fair elections .
Polling dates set for April 23 and April 29.
Kolkata, April 18 (NationPress) A constable from the Kolkata Police Reserve Force has been suspended for allegedly attempting to influence voters during the postal ballot process. The suspension was ordered by the Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police on Saturday.
According to the directive, the constable will remain under suspension until the completion of the voting period.
The officer, identified as Masood Karim, will receive only half of his salary during this suspension. The allegations against him are deemed to be quite severe by sources familiar with the matter.
It has been reported that Constable Masood Karim was assigned to the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency in Kolkata. Due to a reorganization by the Election Commission ahead of the Assembly elections, he was reassigned to the Haldia Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office.
Postal ballot voting commenced in the state on April 13. Reports suggest that Masood Karim attempted to sway voters at the Haldia Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office, an act considered a serious violation.
Consequently, the Kolkata Police deemed it necessary to suspend him.
It is important to note that the Election Commission is actively working to ensure the Assembly elections in West Bengal proceed safely and smoothly. Measures including the deployment of central forces and enhanced surveillance are being implemented to maintain free and fair polling. A significant number of surveillance cameras have also been installed to prevent any incidents of unrest or rigging.
In response to the allegations against the police constable, the Kolkata Police Headquarters acted promptly.
For the time being, Constable Masood Karim will remain suspended until the voting period concludes. As per the regulations, he will receive half of his salary during this time.
Polling is scheduled to take place across 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal in two phases on April 23 and 29. Haldia will participate in the first phase, while Bhabanipur will vote in the second phase.
Vote counting is set for May 4.
Point of View
The swift action taken by the Kolkata Police in response to allegations against Constable Masood Karim reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in West Bengal. Upholding fair practices is essential in democratic elections.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of the constable?
The constable was suspended for allegedly attempting to influence voters during the postal ballot.
How long will the constable remain suspended?
The constable will remain under suspension until the voting period is complete.
What compensation will the constable receive during suspension?
He will receive half of his salary during the suspension period.
When does the voting process take place in West Bengal?
Voting will occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
What measures is the Election Commission taking for fair elections?
The Election Commission is deploying central forces and increasing surveillance to ensure free and fair polling.
