Re-poll ordered in 3 booths across 2 ADC constituencies on April 16

Acting on allegations of irregularities, the State Election Commission (SEC) has ordered a re-poll in three polling stations across two ADC constituencies. The re-poll will be held on April 16, with voting scheduled from 7AM to 4 PM.

The polling stations where re-voting will take place are 39 -Hirapur SB School polling station under the 17-Pekuarjala–Jirania constituency, 3-Bhatimaidan SB School and 17-Ramdev Thakur Para polling stations under the 10-Kulai–Champahowar constituency

The decision was announced by SEC Secretary Anurag Sen. He stated that during Sunday’s polling at Hirapur SB School, certain incidents raised concerns. Based on credible video evidence and reports from observers, it was initially confirmed that some individuals attempted to tamper with the EVMs.

Additionally, irregularities and untoward incidents were reported at Bhatimaidan SB School and Ramdev Thakur Para polling stations. These developments disrupted the smooth and fair conduct of the electoral process, prompting the Commission to order re-polling at the affected booths.

The Commission emphasized that maintaining transparency, credibility, and fairness in the election process is of utmost importance. Necessary measures will be taken to ensure that the re-poll is conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner. Adequate security arrangements will also be deployed to prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

According to preliminary data, voter turnout in Sunday’s ADC elections stood at 83.52%. This figure may slightly change after the re-poll. A total of 7,94,797 voters cast their votes out of 9,51,613 registered voters. Among them, 4,71,663 were male voters, 4,75,944 were female voters, and 6 were third-gender voters. Of these, 3,94,979 men, 3,99,799 women, and 1 third-gender voter exercised their franchise.

Most constituencies recorded over 80% voter turnout. The highest turnout was reported in Purba Muhuripur–Bhuratali (ST) constituency at 89.91%.

On the other hand, the lowest turnout was recorded at 69.09% in 1 No. Damchhara–Jampui Hills (ST) constituency, where 34,018 voters cast their votes.

The Election Commission has urged political parties, candidates, and voters to cooperate in maintaining the integrity and dignity of the electoral process.