What Measures are in Place to Ensure Polling Integrity After Mock Poll Slip Confusion in Samastipur?
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Synopsis
In light of recent confusion over VVPAT slips in Samastipur, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has reassured the public about the integrity of the electoral process. The incident, involving mock poll slips, has led to disciplinary action against the Assistant Returning Officer, highlighting the Election Commission's commitment to transparency and security.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Election Commissioner assures public about polling integrity.
- Incident involved only mock poll slips.
- Disciplinary action taken against Assistant Returning Officer.
- Investigation initiated to clarify circumstances.
- New measures for biometric verification and GPS tracking implemented.
New Delhi, Nov 8 (NationPress) Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar promptly addressed the discovery of VVPAT slips outside a polling station in Sariranjan within Bihar's Samastipur assembly constituency. He clarified that these slips were merely from a mock poll and did not threaten the electoral process.
"The integrity of the polling process remains entirely intact," Kumar reassured during a press briefing at Nirvachan Sadan, responding to inquiries from opposition parties and local media.
Kumar indicated that the District Magistrate (DM) of Samastipur was promptly instructed to investigate the situation on-site.
According to District Magistrate Roshan Kumar, initial findings confirmed that the slips originated from a mandatory mock poll conducted at 5:30 a.m., prior to the start of actual voting.
In accordance with Election Commission protocols, 50 mock votes are cast in the presence of polling agents to verify the functionality of EVM-VVPAT, after which the slips are disposed of and destroyed under CCTV surveillance.
"An investigation into the incident has commenced," Kumar stated.
However, the CEC announced that strict disciplinary measures would be implemented against the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) responsible for the Rosera segment.
"The ARO neglected to ensure the proper disposal of mock poll materials as per ECI guidelines. He is being suspended immediately, and an FIR will be filed under Section 188 (disobedience of a public servant's order) of the IPC," declared the CEC.
Sources revealed that the ARO, a senior officer from the Bihar Administrative Service, had briefly left the booth after the mock poll, entrusting waste clearance to a junior official who mistakenly discarded the slips outside the 100-meter restricted zone.
CCTV footage from 6:12 a.m. shows a sanitation worker inadvertently scattering the slips while sweeping the area. The ECI's technical team performed an additional VVPAT-EVM matching exercise at the booth, achieving a 100 percent reconciliation witnessed by agents.
Voting resumed smoothly by 9:30 a.m., with a turnout of 68 percent recorded by 5 p.m., exceeding the constituency average.
The Election Commission has mandated biometric verification of mock poll disposal and real-time GPS tracking of waste bins at sensitive polling locations.
"Every slip, every vote, every doubt is resolved with evidence," said the CEC, reaffirming public confidence ahead of the final phase on November 11.
Point of View
I observe that the Election Commission's swift response to the mock poll slip incident is vital for maintaining public trust. Their commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in an election climate where integrity is paramount.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the confusion regarding VVPAT slips in Samastipur?
The confusion arose when VVPAT slips from a mandatory mock poll were found outside a polling station, prompting clarifications from the Chief Election Commissioner.
What actions were taken against the Assistant Returning Officer?
The Assistant Returning Officer was suspended for failing to ensure proper disposal of mock poll materials as per guidelines, with an FIR filed under Section 188 of the IPC.
How does the Election Commission ensure polling integrity?
The Election Commission conducts mock polls to verify EVM-VVPAT functionality and mandates strict protocols for the disposal of mock poll materials under surveillance.
