Imphal, Manipur – In a recent development, the Manipur chief electoral officer has declared repolling for 11 polling stations within the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency. Scheduled for April 22, this decision comes in response to a directive from the Election Commission. The previous polls held at these stations on April 19 have been deemed null and void, necessitating fresh polling.

Affected Polling Stations

The affected polling stations are as follows:

• Moirangkampu Sajeb and Thongam Leikai in the Khurai constituency
• Four stations in Kshetrigao
• One station in Thongju, all located in Imphal East district
• Three stations in Uripok
• One station in Konthoujam, situated in Imphal West district

Background and Incidents

The decision for repolling follows a series of concerning incidents during the previous polling. Reports surfaced of firing, intimidation, and even the destruction of EVMs at some polling booths. Allegations of booth capturing further complicated the situation in conflict-hit Manipur.

Despite these challenges, Manipur recorded a notable turnout of 72 per cent in the recent Lok Sabha elections. However, the incidents prompted action, with the Congress party demanding repolling in a significant number of stations.

Congress’s Demand

Manipur Congress president K. Meghachandra stated that the party had lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer. The complaint called for repolling in a total of 47 polling stations. Of these, 36 are within the Inner Manipur constituency, with the remaining 11 in the Outer Manipur constituency.

The demand for repolling comes amidst allegations of booth capturing and election rigging. The Congress party stands firm on its stance, advocating for a fair and transparent electoral process in Manipur.

This development highlights the importance of ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, especially in regions where incidents of malpractice are reported. The upcoming repolling on April 22 aims to address these concerns and uphold the democratic values of the electoral system in Manipur’s Inner Lok Sabha constituency.