Mumbai: In response to a recommendation by the Central Election Commission (ECI), the Maharashtra state government has transferred 111 police inspectors ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections. The Election Commission had conducted a three-day visit to Maharashtra to review election preparations and, during a press conference in Mumbai, directed the immediate transfer of officers who had been in their current postings for more than three years. In compliance with this instruction, the state government has transferred these officers, including 11 police inspectors posted in Mumbai. During the Election Commission’s visit, it was highlighted that police officers who had served for extended periods in certain regions, including senior police inspectors and inspectors in Mumbai, should be transferred out. The move is part of broader efforts to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
Election Commission Criticizes State Government for Ignoring Previous Transfer Directives
The Election Commission had issued similar directives during the Lok Sabha elections, advising the state government to transfer officials who had served in the same position for over three years. However, the state government did not follow these instructions, leading the Election Commission to express its dissatisfaction. Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Commissioner of the Central Election Commission, had written to the Chief Secretaries of Maharashtra and four other states, stressing the need for these transfers, but the state government failed to act.
Concerns Over Polling Station Facilities in Mumbai
During the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission also raised concerns over inadequate facilities at many polling stations in Mumbai. The Commission had instructed local authorities to ensure basic amenities such as seating, fans, and drinking water at polling stations. However, several polling stations fell short of these standards, prompting further dissatisfaction from the Election Commission. With the assembly elections approaching, the state government has now heeded the Election Commission’s recommendations and taken swift action by transferring officials, signaling a commitment to a smooth and efficient election process.
