In a significant decision concerning the Bengal polls, the Supreme Court has declined to issue further orders on a plea filed by the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The party had challenged the Election Commission's (EC) directive to deploy central government and Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) employees for the upcoming vote counting process in West Bengal.
The apex court recorded the Election Commission's assurance that its April 13 circular, outlining the deployment of central staff for counting duties, would be implemented "in letter and spirit." The EC clarified before the court that the returning officer, a state government employee, retains overarching powers, and dismissed the TMC's apprehensions regarding the involvement of central personnel as misplaced.
EC's Stance and Court's Reasoning
During the proceedings, the Election Commission argued that its circular was not contrary to existing rules and that it was within its purview to select counting personnel from a pool including central government employees. The EC also informed the court that the TMC was notified about the April 13 circular on April 29.
The Supreme Court concurred with the EC, stating that the circular could not be deemed incorrect. It also assured the TMC that its representatives would be present during the vote counting process, ensuring transparency and oversight.
Implications for Bengal Vote Counting
This ruling effectively clears the way for the Election Commission to proceed with its planned deployment of central government and PSU employees for the crucial vote tabulation in Bengal. The decision marks a setback for the Trinamool Congress, which had sought judicial intervention to alter the EC's directive, citing concerns over the impartiality and deployment specifics of the counting staff.