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The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a decisive step to ensure a fair and impartial electoral process in Jharkhand, ordering the immediate removal of the state's Acting Director General of Police (DGP), Anurag Gupta. The decision, announced on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, stems from a history of complaints and allegations of biased conduct leveled against Gupta during previous elections. The ECI, citing its commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process, deemed his continued presence in the position incompatible with a free and fair election environment.
Gupta's removal follows a pattern of controversies and accusations dating back to the 2019 General Elections. While serving as Additional Director General (ADG) of the Special Branch, he was removed following allegations of biased conduct raised by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Subsequently, he was transferred to the Resident Commissioner's Office in Delhi and barred from returning to Jharkhand until the election process was complete. Further accusations of misconduct surfaced during the 2016 Biennial Elections to the Council of States from Jharkhand, where Gupta was serving as Additional DGP. This led to an ECI inquiry and the issuance of a charge sheet against him, demanding a departmental investigation. Adding to the weight of these allegations, a case was registered against Gupta in March 2018 under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to electoral malpractice.
The ECI's decision underscores its commitment to upholding the principle of impartiality in law enforcement during elections. The removal of an officer with a history of controversy is seen as a proactive measure to prevent any potential bias or interference with the electoral process. The ECI's directive to the Jharkhand government to present a panel of senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers by 10 am on October 21st, 2024, highlights the urgency of filling the vacant DGP position to ensure the smooth operation of security and law enforcement during the upcoming elections. Jharkhand is scheduled to hold elections in two phases, on November 13th and 20th. The ECI's move signifies its unwavering determination to ensure that the elections in Jharkhand are conducted fairly and transparently, with the highest degree of integrity.
Source: Poll panel orders Jharkhand top cop's removal citing his past complaints