ECI orders fresh polling at six stations in Outer Manipur amid electoral controversy

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered fresh polling at six stations in three assembly segments of Manipur's Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency. This decision comes after concerns were raised regarding the integrity of the initial polling process. The fresh polling is scheduled to take place on April 30, from 7 am to 4 pm.

Fresh polling ordered

The ECI's decision follows a request from the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to address issues related to 19 polling stations in Ukhrul and Phungyar assembly constituencies. Specifically, concerns were raised about irregularities that may have affected the fairness of the electoral process.

Manipur has two Lok Sabha seats: Inner and Outer Manipur. The phase two polling for the Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency occurred on April 26, where voters decided the fate of four candidates. The candidates include Alfred Kanngam Arthur from Congress, Kachui Timothy Zimik from Naga People’s Front, and independent candidates S Kho John and Alyson Abonmai.

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In the Inner Manipur parliamentary constituency, polling took place on April 19 in phase one. However, due to incidents of violence and electoral malpractice in 11 polling stations, re-polling was conducted on April 22 as directed by the ECI.

High Voter turnout and future polling

Manipur witnessed a commendable voter turnout of 77.32%, the highest in the country, after the completion of phase two polling. The upcoming rounds of polling are scheduled for May 7, with counting slated for June 4.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Manipur, Pradeep Kumar Jha, urged voters from the affected polling stations to participate actively in the fresh polling exercise. It is essential for voters to exercise their franchise to ensure the democratic process proceeds smoothly and fairly.

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Overall, the decision to conduct fresh polling underscores the commitment of electoral authorities to uphold the integrity and fairness of the electoral process in Manipur. With high voter turnout and continued vigilance, efforts are underway to ensure that the democratic rights of citizens are safeguarded, leading to a transparent and credible electoral outcome.