EC warns Uttar Pradesh govt against ''backdated transfers''

New Delhi, Feb 23 (UNI) The Election Commission today told the Uttar Pradesh government that it should ensure that no transfers were carried out in the state in violation of the model code of conduct and warned against any ''backdated reshuffle''.

Deputy Election Commission Balakrishnan told newspersons that the EC had conveyed to the UP Government that any attempt by officials to back date transfer orders would be dealt with stringently.

The EC had directed the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Uttar Pradesh to closely monitor the transfer cases and asked him to bring any violation of the model code to the commission's notice, he added.

He said the Commission has also ordered a blanket ban on any physical handing over or taking over of charge by any official connected with election work after February 21, the date the poll schedule was announced.

A communication to this effect was sent to the state government today following information about backdated transfer orders being implemented in some districts.

The Commission has also decided to review all orders issued or physical handing over/taking over after February 21 to assess the need and nature of such transfers.

He said in UP, the District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police are the authorities to effect transfers of junior level officers within the district.

UNI