National Desk
3 June
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
The Election Commission (EC) on Monday refused Congress leader Jairam Ramesh’s request for additional time to substantiate his claims that attempts were made to influence 150 district magistrates and collectors ahead of the June 4 vote count for the Lok Sabha elections. Ramesh had previously made these allegations in a social media post, prompting the EC to demand factual details by Sunday evening.
In response to Ramesh’s request for a week’s extension, the EC issued a firm rejection. “The Commission hereby outrightly rejects your request for time extension and directs you to file your response along with the factual matrix/basis of your allegation by 7 PM today — June 3, failing which it would be presumed that you have nothing substantive to say in the matter and the Commission would proceed ahead to take appropriate action,” the EC stated in a letter to Ramesh.
Ramesh’s claims suggested that attempts were made to unduly influence district magistrates of around 150 parliamentary constituencies, who also serve as returning officers and district election officers. The EC underscored the gravity of these allegations, noting their serious implications for the integrity of the vote counting process scheduled for Tuesday.
The Commission emphasized that no district magistrate had reported any undue influence as alleged by Ramesh, further questioning the basis of his claims. The EC reiterated the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process and stressed that baseless allegations could undermine public confidence in the election’s fairness.
With the deadline set for 7 PM on June 3, the EC’s firm stance highlights its commitment to a transparent and impartial electoral process. The Commission’s refusal to grant an extension reflects the urgency and seriousness with which it addresses any allegations that could affect the credibility of the election results.