EC orders for re-poll in Assam's Ratabari, 4 officials suspended

The Election Commission has ordered for a re-poll at polling station No. 149 in Assam's Ratabari Assembly Constituency in Karimganj District. The decision is taken after reports surfaced Thursday about an incident of an EVM being carried in a private vehicle after polling was complete. Four Poll officials including the Presiding Officer responsible for the lapse have been suspended by the Election Commission. The Commission has informed that the EVM in question has been recovered and upon examination it has been found to be with its seal intact and without any damage. However, a decision for a re-poll at the polling station at a later date has been taken as a measure of abundant precaution. The Commission has also sought a report from the Special Observer in this regard.

It followed the break-down, at around 9pm, of the Election Commission-assigned vehicle of a polling team posted to polling station number 149 at Ratabari's Indira MV School. At around 9.20pm, however, the staff took a lift in the private car without checking its ownership, the poll panel's release said. The Election Commission further said, “the polled EVM comprising BU, CU and VVPAT was found with its seal intact without any damage whatsoever. All the items have been deposited in the strong room”.The opposition has cited the incident to allege "EVM capturing" by the ruling BJP. The Congress's Gaurav Gogoi, has said "this is the only way the BJP can win Assam". The final phase of polling in the state will be held on April 6 and the results will be declared on May 2.