Kolkata | August 5, 2025:
In a major disciplinary action, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has suspended four government officers and a data entry operator in West Bengal for serious lapses during the preparation of electoral rolls in two constituencies. FIRs have been ordered against all five individuals.
The affected constituencies are Baruipur Purba (South 24 Parganas) and Moyna (Purba Medinipur).
Key Highlights:
- Four officers suspended:
- Debottam Dutta Choudhury and Tathagata Mondal (Baruipur Purba)
- Biplab Sarkar and Sudipta Das (Moyna)
- Data Entry Operator Surojit Halder was found guilty of sharing login credentials of the Electoral Registration database with unauthorized persons.
- The EC stated that these actions amounted to serious violations of data security protocols and dereliction of duty.
Disciplinary Action Initiated
The suspended officials have been charged under provisions of the Representation of People’s Act, which deems electoral roll officers to be under the Commission’s deputation during their tenure. The law mandates punishment ranging from 3 months to 2 years imprisonment and a fine for violations connected to electoral roll tampering.
Political Tensions Escalate
BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya has alleged that these lapses were deliberate and politically motivated, accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of manipulating the voter rolls. He called for greater accountability and transparency in the electoral machinery.
The EC has directed the West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant to ensure prompt registration of FIRs and strict action against those involved.
Official Communication from EC
In a letter to the Chief Secretary, EC Secretary Sujeet Kumar Mishra wrote:
“The wrongful addition of names in the electoral rolls by EROs and AEROs of Baruipur Purba and Moyna assembly constituencies has been confirmed. These constitute serious improprieties under the Election Commission’s purview.”
What’s Next?
This development is expected to have wider implications on the ongoing electoral roll revision process in West Bengal. The EC has reiterated its commitment to a free, fair, and error-free election environment, emphasizing zero tolerance for any malpractice.
Sources:
- Official EC letter to Chief Secretary, West Bengal
- PTI reports
- Statements from BJP and Election Commission officials
