In an official communication addressed to the state Chief Secretary, the Commission stated that the action was taken following a detailed report submitted by the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal regarding the conduct of police personnel during the electoral process.
The officers ordered to be suspended include Additional Superintendent of Police Sandip Garai, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Sajal Mondal, Inspector-in-Charge of Diamond Harbour Police Station Mausam Chakraborty, Inspector-in-Charge of Falta Police Station Ajay Bag, and Officer-in-Charge of Usthi Police Station Subhechha Bag.
The Election Commission, in its directive, stated, “After considering the facts and circumstances of the matter, the Commission directs that these officers may be suspended forthwith and disciplinary proceedings be initiated for their serious misconduct and failure to maintain neutrality during West Bengal Legislative Elections 2026.”
The poll authority further instructed the state government to forward a report concerning Additional Superintendent of Police Sandip Garai, an Indian Police Service officer, to his cadre-controlling authority under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
In the same order, the Commission also issued a warning to Diamond Harbour Superintendent of Police Ishani Pal for failing to ensure discipline and fairness among subordinate officers assigned to election-related duties.
The Election Commission directed the state administration to implement its instructions without delay and submit a compliance report by 11:00 AM on April 25. The directive underscores the Commission’s strict stance on maintaining neutrality and accountability among law enforcement agencies during the electoral process.
The development marks a significant administrative intervention aimed at reinforcing electoral integrity and ensuring impartial conduct of police personnel during sensitive election duties.
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