Court Emphasises Compliance With Existing Election Guidelines
The Supreme Court of India on Saturday instructed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure strict adherence to its own official circular while appointing supervisors and assistants for vote counting in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. The court made it clear that the poll body must implement its guidelines without deviation.
A bench comprising Justice P.S. Narasimha and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard the matter arising from a petition filed by the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which had objected to the ECI’s decision to appoint only Central government and PSU employees for counting-related duties.
TMC Challenges Appointment Criteria for Counting Staff
The TMC argued that limiting the selection of counting supervisors and assistants to Central government and public sector employees raised concerns about fairness and transparency in the electoral process. The party sought broader inclusion in the appointment mechanism to ensure neutrality.
ECI Assures Court of Compliance With Circular
During the hearing, senior advocate D.S. Naidu, representing the Election Commission, assured the bench that the ECI would follow its established rules. Responding to the submission, Justice Narasimha observed, “Make sure what is there in the circular is followed,” reinforcing the need for strict compliance with existing norms. Justice Bagchi also noted that the petitioner’s concern was focused on ensuring proper implementation of the guidelines.
The court did not issue any additional directions, stating that no further orders were necessary after the ECI’s assurance was placed on record.
Concerns Raised Over CCTV Footage Preservation
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the TMC, also raised concerns regarding transparency during the counting process. He requested that CCTV footage from counting centres be preserved to ensure accountability.
In response, the ECI’s counsel informed the court that such footage is already preserved for 45 days in accordance with existing procedures.
