EC calls back observer on CPI(M) complaint

Kolkata, Apr 26(UNI) The Election Commission today removed Mr H R Bhimashankar as Expenditure Observer for the city's Belgachhia(East) constituency on the basis of a complaint lodged by the CPI(M).

The Commission, in its order on the eve of the third phase polling in West Bengal, replaced Mr Bhimashankar with Mr A Sabre and Mr N Ahmed, sources in the election office said.

Mr Bhimashankar's removal came a day after the CPI(M) complained against him for describing Belgachhia(East) constituency as 'notorious' in a media conference.

The sources said he had been called back pending an inquiry into the allegation against him.

During a discussion session on a television channel, where CPI(M) MP Shamik Lahiri was present, the TV flashed video shots of a media conference addressed by Mr Bhimashankar.

The observer had also allegedly said the constituency, from where Trnasport Minister Subhash Chakraborty was contesting, had never witnessed a free and fair election.

The CPI(M) leadership immediately lodged protest with the EC, Deputy Election Commissioner Anand Kumar and Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) Debasish Sen alleging that the remarks of Mr Bhimashankar was an insult to the people of the constituency and violative of norms.

Questioning whether an observer had the right to pass "such extremely disparaging and depreciatory" remarks about any constituency, he said the violation assumed greater significance since Mr Bhimashankar was deputed as Expenditure Observer for the constituency.

UNI KDG SJC/SRC2047