Kolkata, 09 March (H.S.) : Chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar adopted a tough stance during a review meeting on election preparedness in West Bengal, where several administrative officials, including senior police officers, were reportedly reprimanded over lapses.

According to sources, the meeting was held by the full bench of the Election Commission of India with state administrative authorities on Monday. During the discussion, Vineet Goyal, Director General (Law and Order) of the state police, along with some other officials, was pulled up over certain issues related to preparedness.

Sources said the Chief Election Commissioner made it clear that every official’s work leaves a “digital footprint”. He warned that whether it is a District Magistrate or a Police Commissioner, any negligence in election-related duties would not be tolerated and strict action could follow.

During the meeting, Kumar also questioned why a Narcotics Advisory Committee had not yet been constituted in West Bengal, despite such mechanisms already being in place in several other states.

When Vineet Goyal reportedly attempted to explain the issue, he was asked to take his seat midway through the response. The Chief Election Commissioner reportedly stated that the Commission already had all the necessary information regarding the matter.

The Commission also issued directives to several other institutions during the meeting. Officials from the Reserve Bank of India, Airports Authority of India, the state excise department and agencies dealing with narcotics control were questioned on multiple aspects related to election monitoring.

The excise department was instructed to ensure that liquor production does not exceed normal levels and to coordinate closely with manufacturing companies. The Commission also emphasised stricter monitoring in border areas to prevent illegal liquor movement.

In addition, the Reserve Bank of India was asked to explain the perceived lack of expected vigilance in cases involving the seizure of illegal cash.

The Chief Election Commissioner reportedly stated that if any institution—whether at the central or state level—commits lapses, it will be held accountable and appropriate action may be taken if required.

The full bench of the Election Commission is currently on a visit to West Bengal to review preparations for the upcoming elections. As part of the visit, separate meetings were held on Monday with administrative officials and later with district magistrates.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh