ECI Removes Home Secretaries in Six States Ahead of Elections

ECI Removes Home Secretaries in Six States Ahead of Elections

ECI Removes Home Secretaries in Six States Ahead of Elections

In a significant move aimed at ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered the removal of Home Secretaries in six states: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Additionally, the Secretary of the General Administrative Department in Mizoram and Himachal Pradesh has also been removed.

Transfers Ordered for Election-Related Officers

The Commission has directed all state governments to transfer officers involved in election-related work who have completed three years or are stationed in their home districts. While Maharashtra initially did not comply with the directive regarding certain Municipal Commissioners and Additional/Deputy Municipal Commissioners, the Commission conveyed its displeasure to the Chief Secretary and directed the transfer of BMC officials by 6 PM on the same day. Similar transfers were also instructed for other municipal commissioners and additional/deputy municipal commissioners across Maharashtra.

Commitment to Electoral Integrity

This action underscores the Commission’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a level playing field and upholding the integrity of the electoral process. CEC Rajiv Kumar reiterated this commitment during the recent Press Conference announcing the schedule for the General Elections 2024.

The officials removed from their positions were found to hold dual charges in the office of the Chief Minister, potentially compromising their impartiality and neutrality, particularly in matters related to law and order and the deployment of forces during elections.

Removal of West Bengal’s DGP

In addition to the removal of Home Secretaries, the Election Commission has also taken action to remove the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal. This decision was made due to the DGP’s previous removal from active election management duties during the 2016 Assembly Election and the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections.

Commitment to Fair Elections

With these measures, the Election Commission of India reaffirms its dedication to conducting elections that are fair, transparent, and free from bias. By ensuring that all stakeholders adhere to the highest standards of integrity and impartiality, the Commission safeguards the integrity of the entire electoral process.