Bhojpur: The Election Commission has adopted a stringent stance in the wake of an incident involving the death of a constable deployed for strong room security in Bhojpur. After the demise of the constable, the Election Commission removed the District Magistrate (DM) and Superintendent of Police (SP). Now, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and Station House Officer (SHO) have faced suspension. The constable’s suicide has shed light on alleged negligence in granting him leave, leading to this unfortunate event.
Constable Hemant Kumar, responsible for securing the EVM strong room at Nawada police station in Bhojpur district, took his own life on March 30. The Election Commission acted promptly upon receiving the complaint, ordering the suspension of SHO Rakesh Kumar Singh and Bhojpur DSP Parichay Kumar, who were overseeing the security arrangements.
Highlighting security breaches and violations of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for EVM protection, the Election Commission has directed the Bihar government to strictly adhere to the SOP guidelines. This action follows allegations of severe negligence in discharging election duties.
In its statement, the Commission acknowledged security lapses and SOP violations, particularly in the supervision of security personnel’s leave approvals. It announced plans to issue immediate charge sheets with hefty penalties to those found responsible, stating that no leniency would be tolerated.
Hemant Kumar’s suicide has brought attention to glaring security deficiencies in the strong room. The Commission emphasized that security protocols outlined in the EVM Manual were not adequately followed. It pointed out failures in implementing 24-hour security arrangements and deploying the requisite State Armed Police personnel.
The security lapse is attributed to staffing issues at the VVPAT warehouse in Nawada police station. Despite the absence of one security guard, no immediate replacement was appointed, leaving the strong room vulnerable. Hemant Kumar’s tragic demise has left his colleagues in shock, especially as he was scheduled to marry next month. Described as quiet and visibly distressed in the days leading up to the incident, his untimely death has deeply saddened his fellow constables.
