EC warns of job loss for calculation errors, negligence during counting

The Election Commission has issued a stern ultimatum to government employees ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Election counting scheduled for Monday, May 4. With EVMs currently under tight security in strongrooms, the Commission has made it clear that any calculation errors or negligence during the counting process will met with severe departmental action. Sources indicate that intentional mistakes or a failure to follow strict guidelines could lead to the immediate loss of employment for the staff involved.

To maintain transparency and ensure a faultless process, the Commission has turned 77 counting centers across the state into high-security zones. A massive administrative layer has been deployed, including 165 counting observers and additional police observers to maintain order. This strict stance follows reports of negligence by polling officers during the voting phase in South 24 Parganas, for which the Commission is already considering punitive measures.

In addition to staff monitoring, the Commission has implemented legal restrictions to prevent any external disruptions. Section 163 has been imposed around all counting centers under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Police, banning gatherings of five or more people within 200 meters of the strongrooms. These measures are intended to avoid protests or unpleasant incidents as the state prepares for the final results of a record-breaking voter turnout.