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CPI-M urges ECI to provide security for counting agents
Kolkata, May 15 (IBNS): Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls result, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on Thursday demanded that the Election Commission of India take "necessary measures and make proper preparations to ensure that the democratic verdict of the people is not manipulated further at the stage of the counting of votes" in West Bengal.
In a letter addressed to the Commission by Polit Bureau Member Sitaram Yechury, the party has suggested among other things provision of adequate security for the counting agents of all parties.
The party has expressed the apprehension that the widespread violence and intimidation witnessed during the last phase of polling in West Bengal will find reflection during the counting process also.
"In view of such apprehensions, we are suggesting that the EC should display utmost vigilance, provide adequate security for the counting agents of all parties and other such measures. These are outlined in the enclosed letters from the Chairman of the Left Front Committee of West Bengal, which have already been sent to you directly. The same concerns have been raised with the CEO, West Bengal and the Special Observer," Yechury said in his letter.
"From many counting centres in the state, such apprehensions are pouring in seeking proper security arrangements during the counting process. Similarly, instances of how efforts are being made to prepare from manipulating the counting process are also pouring in from many centres. There are reports that EVMs are not properly protected and in some instances, no elections official has been assigned duty to remain at the centre during the night, " the letter said.
"There are also reports that the identity cards of counting agents from the opposition parties have been forcibly acquired by the ruling party, so that they can prevent the counting agents of opposition parties from being present and hence facilitate the manipulation of the counting. These are based on verified reports. Therefore, we are urging the EC not to dismiss such apprehensions as mere allegations," Yechury urged.
Earlier, the party has submitted a memorandum on violence against women in West Bengal in the 9th phase of parliamentary elections that was held on May 12.
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