Bengal assembly elections: EC purge continues to ensure free and fair polls in second phase

The Election Commission of India has intensified its crackdown in West Bengal as part of its drive to ensure free and fair elections, suspending five police officers in the Diamond Harbour district and ordering disciplinary proceedings over “serious misconduct and failure to maintain neutrality” during the ongoing 2026 Assembly elections.

Acting on complaints and internal assessment, the poll body directed the immediate suspension of Sandip Garai, Additional Superintendent of Police, Diamond Harbour; Sajal Mondal, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Diamond Harbour; Mausam Chakraborty, Inspector-in-Charge, Diamond Harbour Police Station; Ajay Bag, Inspector-in-Charge, Falta Police Station; and Subhechha Bag, Officer-in-Charge, Usthi Police Station.

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In a parallel action, the Commission issued a warning to Diamond Harbour Superintendent of Police Ishani Pal, citing alleged failure to ensure discipline and fairness among subordinate officers in sensitive election-related matters.

The poll panel has directed that the orders be implemented with immediate effect and a compliance report be submitted by 11 am on Saturday.

The action comes at a crucial time as West Bengal moves deeper into the election process. Phase one polling concluded on Thursday evening, recording a high voter turnout of 91.91 per cent, according to Election Commission data. Earlier, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar noted the unprecedented participation, stating that West Bengal and Tamil Nadu witnessed their highest ever polling percentages since Independence, and praised voters for their participation.

With the second phase approaching, the Election Commission’s strict enforcement signals continued vigilance on law and order and administrative neutrality. Polling in the remaining 142 constituencies in West Bengal is scheduled for May 29, while counting of votes will take place on May 4.