EC orders transferred DMs to vacate official bungalows within 24 hours amid complaints

The Election Commission has directed several transferred District Magistrates in West Bengal to vacate their official bungalows within 24 hours after complaints were raised by newly appointed officers. The instruction came after allegations that some officials who were recently transferred had not yet vacated their residences. The Chief Electoral Officer’s office clarified that all such bungalows must be vacated by March 22 without exception.

The issue surfaced during a virtual meeting held by the commission with District Election Officers. During the discussion, several newly appointed District Magistrates alleged that a section of the transferred officials had not vacated their official residences despite their transfer orders. As a result, the incoming officers said they were facing logistical challenges while beginning election-related duties.

According to officials, the problem has been reported in districts including Malda, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar. Following these complaints, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal issued strict instructions directing that the residences be vacated immediately so that the newly appointed officials can take charge smoothly. The commission also stressed that the directive must be followed without delay. The administrative reshuffle was carried out by the Election Commission ahead of voting in West Bengal, which included the transfer of several senior officials such as the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and 13 District Election Officers, including 11 District Magistrates.