Election Commission Demands Accountability: Maharashtra Under Scrutiny for Non-Compliant Transfers

The Election Commission has sought explanations from Maharashtra's chief secretary and police chief for not fully implementing its directive to transfer officials ahead of the assembly polls. Despite a directive to relocate officials by August 31, compliance remains incomplete, raising concerns about the electoral process's integrity.

The Election Commission (EC) on Friday sent a stern message to Maharashtra's administration, seeking explanations from the state's chief secretary and police chief for their failure to fully implement its orders regarding the transfer of officials ahead of the upcoming assembly polls.

Despite a directive issued on July 31 to relocate officials who had been in their home districts or current postings for over three years, the state administration has yet to complete the process, according to a strongly-worded letter from the EC. The compliance report was due by August 31. While the additional director general of police submitted a partial report, a full response from the chief secretary is still pending.

Sources have indicated that over 100 inspector-level officers in Mumbai and key revenue officials have not been transferred as required. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar expressed his displeasure, noting that the delay undermines efforts to ensure a free and fair electoral process. The EC is currently in Maharashtra to review its preparedness for the forthcoming polls, with the current Assembly term ending on November 26.

(With inputs from agencies.)