KOLKATA – Several opposition parties in West Bengal have formally petitioned the Election Commission of India (ECI) for a condensed polling schedule for the upcoming state assembly elections, with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] specifically advocating for a single-phase election. The core argument centers on the belief that multi-phase elections create opportunities for malfeasance and unrest.
The CPI(M) formally requested a single-phase election, or at most two phases, to prevent the movement of "anti-social elements." This sentiment was echoed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which proposed a maximum of three phases, and the Congress, which also leaned towards one or two phases, emphasizing that a streamlined process would contribute to violence-free polls. The Election Commission's full bench, currently in Kolkata for a three-day review of poll preparations, met with delegations from these parties to hear their suggestions.
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Beyond the number of phases, opposition parties, particularly the CPI(M) and Congress, also raised concerns about the integrity of voter lists. They highlighted the issue of approximately 60 lakh voters categorized as 'under adjudication' and urged the ECI to ensure that genuine voters are included in the final electoral rolls before elections commence.
Calls for Streamlined Voting
During their meetings with the ECI's full bench, including Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Commissioners S S Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, various parties articulated their preferences for the election timeline.
CPI(M): Formally demanded a single-phase election, or a maximum of two phases. Their primary concern is that multi-phase polling facilitates the movement of troublemakers.
BJP: Suggested conducting the polls in no more than three phases, also voicing a desire for violence-free elections.
Congress: While not explicitly stating a phase number, indicated a preference for a shorter schedule, ideally one or two phases, contingent on ensuring free and fair elections.
Trinamool Congress (TMC): In contrast, the ruling party did not appear to press for a specific phase count, with state minister Firhad Hakim suggesting the meeting with the ECI was not the appropriate forum for discussing polling phases.
Voter List Integrity Questioned
A significant point of contention raised by the CPI(M) and Congress was the status of a large number of voters. The parties expressed disquiet over more than 60 lakh voters being listed as 'under adjudication', urging the ECI to ensure that the electoral rolls are accurate and inclusive of all genuine electors. The CPI(M) explicitly stated that elections cannot proceed without addressing this voter list issue. Data indicates a net deletion of over 61.78 lakh voters from the electoral roll, following the removal of around 63.67 lakh names and the addition of approximately 1.88 lakh.
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Election Commission's Preparations
The ECI's full bench visit is a crucial step in reviewing the logistical and security arrangements for the impending elections. While political parties voiced their demands and concerns, the Commission has indicated its resolve to ensure "free, fair and festive elections." Reports suggest internal meetings were held to assess poll preparedness during the bench's stay.
Background Context
The West Bengal Assembly elections are a highly anticipated political event, marked in the past by intense competition and allegations of electoral irregularities. The previous assembly elections saw a decisive victory for the Trinamool Congress, with the Left Front, including the CPI(M), failing to secure any seats in the 294-member house. The state's political landscape is often characterized by vigorous campaigning and significant mobilization efforts by the major parties. The current discussions around election phasing and voter list accuracy reflect the historical sensitivities surrounding the electoral process in West Bengal.
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