EC Takes “Stringent” Action Against Tripura Officials After Alleged Attack on Congress Leader; sends 3 Special Observers to State

GG News Bureau

Agartala, 21st Jan. Days after Congress leader Ajoy Kumar was allegedly attacked in Tripura, the Election Commission expressed “displeasure” to the state chief secretary and police chief, asking them to explain why the situation escalated despite the presence of sufficient central forces, according to the poll panel.

The panel also took “stringent” action against some officers “for not taking appropriate action in time”.

The Commission has appointed three special observers and directed them to travel to the state immediately.

They have also been asked to assess the situation, ensure proper deployment of central forces, and step up enforcement.

It ordered the suspension and immediate removal of the Jirania sub-divisional police officer of West Tripura.

The poll watchdog also ordered the immediate removal of the officers in charge of Rani Bazaar and Jirania police stations.

The chief secretary and Director General of Police were directed to assess the threat perception to the leaders of various political parties in the state as soon as possible and to provide security accordingly.

On February 16, the state goes to the polls. On March 2, votes will be counted.

“The chief secretary and the director general of police, Tripura were asked to explain as to why the situation escalated despite a sufficient number of CAPF personnel deployed in the state. The Commission conveyed its displeasure in no uncertain and strongest terms on the violent incident despite the Commission’s strict directions during visit to the state and thereafter,” the EC said.

The two were ordered to ensure that all political parties have a level playing field and to take strict action against partisan officers.

According to the EC, a report from the state government confirmed Kumar suffered “minor injuries in an unlawful rally (incident occurred in an area where permission was not granted by district authorities)”.

State government report said Kumar did not sustain serious injuries.