EC removes Chinsurah observer over performance concerns, orders immediate exit from Bengal

The Election Commission has taken strict administrative action in West Bengal, removing the General Observer of Chinsurah Assembly constituency in Hooghly, C. Palarasu, over alleged dissatisfaction with his performance. The decision comes amid heightened monitoring of election-related officials, with authorities reiterating that no lapse in duty will be tolerated during the ongoing electoral process.

Following the order, C. Palarasu has been directed to leave West Bengal immediately. In his place, Rajesh Kumar Sharma, who was earlier serving as General Observer of a neighbouring constituency, has been assigned additional responsibility for Chinsurah. Officials indicated that observers play a critical role in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, particularly in sensitive constituencies.

According to Commission sources, the decision was taken after reviewing the functioning and responsibilities handled by the observer in the constituency. The Election Commission of India has been maintaining strict oversight over all appointed observers, ensuring that administrative vigilance remains strong across polling areas. Any deviation or inefficiency in duty performance is being treated seriously.

This is not an isolated case, as earlier during the ongoing election cycle, the General Observer of the Cooch Behar North constituency was also removed after failing to respond satisfactorily to a query from the Chief Election Commissioner regarding basic constituency details. With the removal in Chinsurah, the Commission has once again demonstrated its strict approach to accountability. Officials further confirmed that monitoring of observers will continue closely, especially in sensitive constituencies, to ensure law and order and adherence to electoral guidelines.