The Election Commission on Thursday sought to downplay allegations levelled by left parties and Congress over the ‘inaction’ by its special observer in West Bengal saying there was “nothing objectionable” in his movement, including when he left the State.
Responding to a volley of questions on allegations on the ‘inaction’ by the special observer, Chief Election Commissioner VS Sampath said here since the officer is on a different footing, he can always leave the State with the permission of the poll body.
There had been allegations by Opposition parties in West Bengal that the officer concerned — Sudhir Rakesh — was not present and available to them on certain polling days in West Bengal when he was approached with complaints of rigging and booth capturing.