BHUBANESWAR: The Election Commission of India has initiated significant action in response to allegations of undue influence in the ongoing Odisha Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha had reported instances of interference by senior officials in a communication dated May 27, 2024.
The Election Commission highlighted the involvement of DS Kutey, IPS (RR: 1997), Special Secretary to the Chief Minister’s Office, and Ashish Kumar Singh, IPS (RR: 2010), IG (CM Security), in influencing officers connected with election work.
To preserve the integrity of the electoral process, the Commission directed that the ongoing investigation against Prasanta Jagadev, a BJP MLA candidate, for damaging an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) must continue without hindrance, following due process of law.
The Commission also decided to suspend DS Kutey under relevant service rules for undue election interference. Kutey is required to report to the Office of Resident Commissioner, Odisha, New Delhi, by 3:00 PM May 29, 2024. The Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha has been tasked with preparing and issuing a draft chargesheet against Kutey, which the Chief Secretary of Odisha must formally issue by 5:00 PM, May 30, 2024.
In addition, Ashish Kumar Singh, who is currently on medical leave since May 4, 2024, has been asked to undergo a detailed medical examination by a special medical board constituted by the Director of AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, by May 30, 2024. The Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha has been asked to ensure the board’s constitution and report to the Commission by May 31, 2024.
The Election Commission, in a press release, stated that these measures underscore its commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process, ensuring that elections are conducted free from undue influence.
PNN