Violence Prompts Repolling in Manipur: Fresh Polls Ordered for 11 Booths in Inner Manipur Lok Sabha Seat
Desk Report, April 22, 2024: Following the chaos and violence during the initial phase of Lok Sabha elections in Manipur, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state took a decisive step by announcing re-polling for 11 polling booths in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat. The Election Commission, in response to incidents of gunfire and destruction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), declared the polls conducted on April 19 null and void.
The decision to order fresh polling on April 22 (Monday) was made to ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral process. The violence, which reportedly led to one civilian being injured at a polling booth in Moirangkampu Sajeb Awang Leikai of Imphal, underscored the need for immediate action to uphold democracy.
In accordance with the CEO’s order, the Election Commission invoked Sections 58(2) and 58A(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to declare the previous polls invalid for the specified polling stations. The re-polling is scheduled to take place on April 22, 2024, with voting hours set from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
This decision reflects the Election Commission’s commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process and ensuring that every vote counts. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and safeguarding the rights of citizens to participate in free and fair elections.
Also read: Thrilling T20 Showdown: Gujarat Titans Triumph Over Punjab Kings in Nail-biting Clash
