EC orders fresh voting after man live-streamed voting in Gujarat

Voting: Four election officers, including a presiding official, a deputy presiding officer, two polling officials, and a police constable, were suspended in link with the incident.

Irregularities Uncovered 

The Election Commission (EC) has mandated fresh voting at a polling station in Gujarat’s Dahod Lok Sabha seat after a video of live-streamed voting went viral. The EC deemed the voting null and void after uncovering irregularities, leading to the suspension of four election officials and a police constable.

Official Response 

The office of the Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) confirmed the suspension of the presiding officer, assistant presiding officer, two polling officers, and a police constable involved in the incident. 

The decision was made following a report submitted by the Returning Officer and Observer, prompting the EC to declare the previous voting null and void under the Representation of the People Act.

Fresh Polling Ordered 

Fresh polling has been scheduled at the Parthampur polling station in Mahisagar district on May 11 between 7 am and 6 pm. The EC’s swift action reflects its commitment to upholding the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.

Allegations and Complaint 

The Congress lodged a complaint with the EC, alleging “booth capturing” and “bogus voting” based on the viral video. The video, reportedly live-streamed on Instagram by Vijay Bhabhor, showed him remaining in the polling booth for five minutes and allegedly casting votes on behalf of others.

Political Implications 

Prabha Taviad, the Congress candidate in the constituency, contested against incumbent MP Jasvantsinh Bhabhor. The Congress accused Vijay Bhabhor, allegedly the son of a local BJP leader, of influencing the voting process in favor of the BJP.

Detainment and Investigation 

Vijay Bhabhor was detained on charges of bogus voting following the incident. The video purportedly shows him focusing the camera on the electronic voting machine (EVM) and making partisan remarks before pressing a button on the EVM.

Conclusion 

The EC’s decision to order fresh voting underscores its commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process. The incident highlights the need for vigilance and strict enforcement of electoral laws to ensure free and fair elections.