Security Lapses Mar West Bengal Electoral Visit

The Election Commission has highlighted security lapses during an ERO's visit to Special Intensive Revision camps in West Bengal. Incidents of mob obstruction were reported, and an FIR was filed. The EC has demanded an action report from the state police and instructed enhanced security for future visits.

The Election Commission (EC) has flagged significant security concerns during a recent visit by an Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) to Special Intensive Revision (SIR) camps in West Bengal. The EC has requested a comprehensive action report from the state police due on January 6.

The commission's letter to the director general of police outlined a report by C Murugan, a senior bureaucrat, and observer, describing multiple security lapses during his December 29 visit to SIR hearing camps in South 24 Parganas district.

In response, the EC has mandated strict security protocols for future electoral roll observer visits, following an incident involving Murugan's vehicle being damaged by protesters. The commission emphasized the need for senior police officers to accompany observers to ensure safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)