EC Urges Action on West Bengal Polling Booth Proposals

The Election Commission has criticized West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer for delays in proposing new polling booths for high-rise buildings and housing societies. The EC emphasizes the necessity for new polling stations to avoid exceeding 1200 voters per booth in the upcoming elections. Deadline for proposals is December 31.

The Election Commission has expressed serious concerns regarding the delays by the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer's office in submitting proposals for establishing new polling booths in residential complexes and high-rise buildings. The Commission highlighted that the number of electors should not exceed 1200 per booth for the upcoming assembly elections.

Proposals for new polling stations, particularly in high-rise buildings and housing societies, remain pending approval. An extensive survey should be conducted to address this, according to the EC's guidelines. However, the EC notes a glaring absence of submissions and suggests a lack of initiative among district electoral officers.

With a December 31 deadline looming, the Election Commission has issued stern orders for compliance. Any multi-storey structure or society with at least 250 households or 500 voters must have a designated polling booth. This directive follows concerns raised by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding polling booths within residential areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)