Bengal poll rules tightened: EC rolls out 25 do’s and don’ts for election staff

Kolkata: Amid rising concerns over the safety of polling personnel following allegations of personal data leaks in South 24 Parganas, the Election Commission has rolled out a detailed 25-point “Do’s and Don’ts” guideline for presiding officers and polling staff. 

The move comes after addresses and mobile numbers of polling officials were allegedly circulated across multiple WhatsApp groups, triggering alarm among staff and prompting the Commission to initiate a probe.

In a bid to tighten security and ensure smooth conduct of polling, the EC has laid down the following 25 key instructions:

25 Do’s and Don’ts for polling staff:

1. Do not share personal phone numbers with unknown individuals.
2. Do not accept gifts, favours, or help from anyone.
3. Report any threatening or suspicious calls immediately to the sector officer.
4. Only the presiding officer is allowed to carry a mobile phone inside the booth.
5. Ensure no other polling staff carry mobile phones inside the booth.
6. Do not allow polling agents to use mobile phones inside the booth.
7. Voters carrying mobile phones must not be allowed inside; ensure they are removed.
8. Establish contact with the sector officer at the distribution centre.
9. Also connect with the assistant sector officer in advance.
10. Keep contact numbers of sector and assistant sector officers handy.
11. Keep numbers of the returning officer, observer, and control room accessible.
12. Maintain contact details of central forces deployed at the booth.
13. Keep the quick response team’s phone number readily available.
14. Do not leave the booth unnecessarily during polling hours.
15. Avoid interacting or socialising with locals outside the booth.
16. Do not visit local clubs, tea stalls, or public gathering spots.
17. Accept only food arranged by the district administration or returning officer.
18. Do not accept food, water, or drinks from locals or shops.
19. Ensure polling agents consume only water inside the booth.
20. Remove any agent violating food or conduct rules with help of central forces.
21. Verify reasons if a polling agent leaves the booth without replacement.
22. Intervene if an agent leaves due to intimidation or coercion.
23. Inform the sector officer if any agent is absent for more than 30 minutes.
24. Allow entry to polling stations only after verifying valid ID of authorised persons.
25. Coordinate with central forces to maintain strict security and order at all times.

The EC has made it clear that strict adherence to these guidelines is crucial to ensure free, fair, and secure elections. Officials have been warned that any lapse could invite serious consequences.

With heightened vigilance and tighter protocols, the Commission aims to restore confidence among polling personnel and prevent any disruptions during the electoral process.