Election Commission Orders Jharkhand Govt To Replace Acting DGP: Reports

The Election Commission of India has directed the removal of Anurag Gupta from his position as Acting DGP in Jharkhand ahead of the assembly elections on November 13 and 20. This decision aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed the Jharkhand government to immediately remove Anurag Gupta from his role as Acting Director General of Police (DGP). This decision comes ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Sources indicate that Gupta is to be replaced by the most senior official at the DGP level within the cadre.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced that Jharkhand's assembly elections are scheduled for November 13 and 20, with results expected on November 23. The state has 81 constituencies, and voting will occur in two phases. In the first phase, 43 seats will be contested.

Election Phases and Constituencies

During Phase 1, elections will take place in constituencies such as Kodarma, Barkatha, Barhi, and others including Ranchi and Jamshedpur East. This phase also includes several reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Phase 2 will cover areas like Rajmahal, Borio (ST), Barhait (ST), and more. This phase also includes constituencies like Dumka (ST) and Jamtara. Both phases include a mix of general and reserved seats.

Reasons Behind Gupta's Removal

The decision to remove Anurag Gupta was influenced by past complaints against him during earlier elections. The ECI had previously taken action against him based on these complaints. The commission aims to ensure fair conduct during the upcoming polls.

Jharkhand's election process involves a significant number of constituencies with diverse demographics. The ECI's directive aims to maintain impartiality and transparency throughout this electoral period.

The replacement for Gupta is yet to be announced but must be a senior official at the DGP level. This move reflects the ECI's commitment to addressing concerns related to election management in Jharkhand.

The upcoming elections are crucial for Jharkhand's political landscape, with multiple parties vying for control over its legislative assembly. Ensuring a fair election process is vital for maintaining public trust in democratic institutions.