The CPI (M) state secretary and Leader of Opposition, Jitendra Choudhury, has lodged accusations against Dr. Vishal Kumar, the Returning Officer (RO) of West Tripura Parliamentary Constituency, alleging bias towards the ruling BJP.
Choudhury has formally written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), urging them to ensure impartiality in the electoral process under Dr. Kumar’s supervision.
Choudhury claimed that Dr. Kumar breached election protocols by allowing a significant number of BJP leaders and supporters into his chamber during the nomination filing of BJP candidate Biplab Kumar Deb. This, according to Choudhury, indicates favouritism towards the BJP.
Highlighting previous incidents, Choudhury recalled instances during the last by-elections in Dhanpur and Boxanagar assembly constituencies where Dr. Kumar allegedly favoured the BJP, turning the electoral process into a ‘farce’. Despite being transferred to West District as District Magistrate; Choudhury asserts that Dr. Kumar continues to exhibit bias in favour of the ruling party.
Furthermore, Choudhury criticised the Modi-led government for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by announcing an increase in wages for MGNREGA workers nationwide. While acknowledging the potential benefits of the wage hike for rural workers, Choudhury condemned the timing of the announcement, stating that it exposes the government’s true intentions while the MCC is in effect.
The CPI (M) leader’s accusations underscore growing concerns over the fairness and integrity of the electoral process in West Tripura, prompting calls for heightened vigilance from the Election Commission to uphold democratic principles.
