New Delhi: In a significant move, the Election Commission of India has initiated a series of transfers and removals of high-ranking officials across multiple states, signaling a major shake-up in the administrative ranks before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The commission’s sweeping directive includes the removal of the Home Secretaries of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Additionally, the Director-General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal has been relieved from his duties.
The order extends to the General Administrative Department as well, with the Secretaries in Mizoram and Himachal Pradesh being removed from their positions. In a move that underscores the commission’s commitment to impartiality and fair play, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner, Iqbal Singh Chahal, along with several Additional and Deputy Commissioners, have also been ordered to step down.
While the reasons for these high-profile changes have not been disclosed, insider sources suggest that the commission’s actions are aimed at ensuring a level playing field and upholding the sanctity of the electoral process. The commission has further instructed all state governments to reassign officers involved in election-related activities who have either completed a three-year tenure or are serving in their home districts.
The country is poised for a significant electoral exercise, with voting for the 543 Lok Sabha seats scheduled to occur in seven phases from April 19 to June 1. The results of this monumental democratic event will be revealed on June 4, as the nation awaits the counting of votes.
