Bengal polls: ECI shifts 483 officials in unprecedented poll-time reshuffle

Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has transferred 483 administrative and police officials in West Bengal since the Assembly polls were announced on March 15, marking an unprecedented reshuffle.

The figure is 21 times higher than the 23 officers shifted across Assam, Kerala and Tamil Nadu combined, while no transfers have been ordered in Puducherry.

The moves were carried out in phases based on intelligence inputs and observer feedback, involving top officials, IPS and IAS officers, returning officers, and police personnel.

The ECI said the aim was to ensure free and fair elections. While the Trinamool Congress alleged the reshuffle was politically motivated, the BJP supported the Commission.

The Calcutta High Court upheld the ECI’s decision, dismissing a petition challenging the transfers.