Why is the ECI Upset About Polling Booth Proposals in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India is frustrated with the lack of proposals from West Bengal officials for polling booths in private housing complexes. The situation raises questions about electoral accessibility and the responsibilities of district officers, prompting significant political debate.
Key Takeaways
- The ECI is dissatisfied with the lack of polling booth proposals in Bengal.
- District officials are required to fulfill their statutory duties regarding polling station sufficiency.
- Mamata Banerjee opposes polling stations in private complexes.
- The BJP argues for the convenience of additional polling locations.
- Proposals must be submitted by December 31, 2025.
Kolkata, Dec 10 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has expressed deep dissatisfaction over the absence of proposals from district magistrates and District Electoral Officers (DEOs) concerning private housing complexes with multiple high-rise towers that could serve as suitable polling booths for the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled next year.
In a firm communication directed to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, the Commission emphasized that the lack of polling station proposals from West Bengal has raised serious concerns regarding the DEOs' adherence to their statutory responsibilities as outlined in Section 25 and Section 160 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
According to the ECI's correspondence, "The DEOs are accountable under these provisions for any insufficiency of polling stations for voters in the specified residential areas." A copy of this communication has been obtained by IANS.
The Commission has instructed that following the draft publication of the Electoral Roll on December 16, all DEOs must promptly survey high-rise buildings, group housing societies, resident welfare associations (RWAs), slums, and gated communities with a minimum of 250 homes or 500 voters. They are to provide details of available ground floor rooms suitable for polling stations within these locations.
Furthermore, the ECI has highlighted that additional polling stations in slum areas should also be evaluated. The proposals for the rationalization or rearrangement of polling stations, including those in high-rises and group housing complexes, must be submitted for the Commission's approval through the CEO's office by December 31, 2025.
It is worth noting that the Trinamool Congress and Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, have been vocal in their opposition to the ECI's initiative to establish new polling booths within private housing complexes.
Last month, the Chief Minister penned a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, expressing her disapproval of the ECI's suggestion to locate polling stations inside private housing complexes for the upcoming Assembly elections.
In her letter, she stated, "This proposal is highly contentious. Polling stations have traditionally been situated in government or semi-government locations, ideally within a 2 km radius, to maintain accessibility and neutrality. Private buildings often pose issues: they undermine fairness, breach established norms, and create unfair distinctions between affluent residents and the broader public."
In response, Amit Malviya, the Chief of the BJP's Information Technology Cell and the party's central observer for West Bengal, countered the Chief Minister’s concerns, asserting that any premises can be designated as a polling station as long as they facilitate voting access for all.
He questioned, "Similar booths have been successfully implemented in high-rise buildings in Delhi and elsewhere. Why does it suddenly concern you that the ECI is enhancing voting convenience? No existing booths are being eliminated. So, what exactly troubles you — the expansion of voting access or the crumbling of your narrative?"
Point of View
it's crucial to recognize the importance of accessibility in electoral processes. The ECI's concerns highlight the responsibilities of local officials in ensuring that all voters have the opportunity to cast their ballots effectively. Balancing political opinions with the need for fair access to voting remains paramount as we approach the upcoming elections.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ECI's main concern regarding polling booths in Bengal?
The ECI is concerned about the lack of proposals from district officials for polling booths in private housing complexes, which could affect voter accessibility during the upcoming Assembly elections.
What are the statutory responsibilities of DEOs?
District Electoral Officers are required to ensure sufficient polling stations for voters, as mandated by Section 25 and Section 160 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
What did Mamata Banerjee say about the ECI's proposal?
Mamata Banerjee criticized the proposal, stating that polling stations should remain in government or semi-government locations to ensure neutrality and accessibility.
How has the BJP responded to the objections raised by the Chief Minister?
Amit Malviya from the BJP countered the objections, arguing that polling booths can be set up in any premises that facilitate voting access for all voters.
What is the deadline for submitting proposals for polling stations?
The ECI has set a deadline of December 31, 2025, for DEOs to submit proposals for the rationalization of polling stations.
