New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI), in a big move, announced that no election campaigning would be held in nine parliamentary constituencies of West Bengal – Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, Mathurapur, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, South and North Kolkata from 10 pm Thursday ahead of the May 19 polls. Campaigning for the last phase of Lok Sabha elections was to officially end on Friday.
As per the orders of the ECI, all campaign in West Bengal would come to an end on Thursday at 10 pm.
An official of the ECI while addressing the media said, “This is probably the first time that ECI has invoked Article 324 in this manner but it may not be last in cases of repetition of lawlessness and violence which vitiate the conduct of polls in a peaceful manner. “The Commission is deeply anguished at the vandalism done to the statue of Vidyasagar. It is hoped that the vandals are traced by the state administration.” The EC official further said, “ADG CID, Rajiv Kumar stands relieved and attached to MHA. He should report to MHA by 10 am tomorrow. Principal Secretary, Home &Health Affairs WB government stands relieved from his current charge immediately for having interfered in the process of conducting polls by directing WB CEO. Chief Secretary will look after the Home Department.”
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