IT News
Imphal, April 29:
In light of the upcoming re-polling scheduled for April 30, 2024, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has submitted a formal request to the Chief Electoral Officer of Manipur, urging for enhanced security measures in six hyper-sensitive polling stations.
The MPCC, through its General Secretary (Administration), S. Jeeten Singh, highlighted concerns regarding potential disturbances by anti-social elements during the re-polling process. The identified polling stations include 44/20-Shangshak-A, 44/36-Ukhrul (A), 44/41-Ukhrul (D-1), 44/50-Ukhrul (F), 45/14-Chingal, and 47/33-Oinam (A1).
The committee has specifically called for the deployment of adequate Central Para Military Forces and the appointment of Executive Magistrates at each polling station to ensure prompt intervention in case of disruptions. Additionally, MPCC emphasized the necessity of installing CCTV cameras and ensuring video coverage to maintain transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
In this context, Keisham Meghachandra Singh, spokesperson of the Congress party, has stated that there are reports of armed individuals congregating in significant numbers in the areas designated for re-polling. There is a concern that these groups may intimidate voters, leading to potential incidents of booth capturing or coercion to deter voters from participating. Thus, there is an urgent need for enhanced security measures.
Moreover, he highlighted instances of violence, including the physical assault of women and attacks on the elderly, during the initial phase of the election. He emphasized that such incidents have garnered international attention, tarnishing the reputation of the electoral process.