Repolling Ordered in Manipur’s Inner Lok Sabha Constituency Amidst Violence
In the aftermath of Friday’s tumultuous Lok Sabha elections in Manipur’s Inner Lok Sabha constituency, the Election Commission has initiated repolling at 11 polling booths. The decision to nullify the previous voting was prompted by incidents of violence, including gunfire and clashes, which marred the electoral process.
Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur, announced on Saturday that the repolling would take place on April 22 at the specified polling stations. These stations include Moirangkampu Sajeb and Thongam Leikai in Khurai constituency, four in Kshetrigao, and one in Thongju in Imphal East district. Additionally, three stations in Uripok and one in Konthoujam in Imphal West district are slated for repolling.
The conflict-ridden state of Manipur witnessed a host of disruptions during the initial polling, ranging from firing incidents to intimidation, destruction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and allegations of booth capturing. Despite these challenges, the state recorded a commendable voter turnout of 72 percent.
The Congress party swiftly responded to the chaotic electoral process by demanding repolling at 47 polling stations. Allegations of election rigging and booth capturing prompted the party to lodge a formal complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer. Manipur Congress president K Meghachandra confirmed the submission of the complaint, specifically seeking repolling at 36 stations in Inner Manipur and 11 in Outer Manipur.
As the repolling process unfolds, authorities remain vigilant, aiming to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that every citizen’s democratic right is respected.
