Kolkata: A new dispute has emerged between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the West Bengal government regarding the selection of an agency to manage infrastructure facilities—specifically Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) and Extended Minimum Facilities (EMF)—at polling booths ahead of next year’s Assembly elections.
Push to Replace Decentralised Funding Model
The ECI, along with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, is advocating for the discontinuation of the traditional decentralised model. This system involved allocating funds to District Magistrates, who also serve as District Election Officers, for election-related expenditures, primarily infrastructure upgrades at polling stations.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
Seeking a more transparent and accountable framework, the ECI aims to overhaul the current fund utilisation process. The proposed change is intended to enhance clarity and curb potential misuse of election funds.
To implement the new system, the CEO’s office reached out to Mackintosh Burn Limited (MBL), a state-run enterprise with a strong track record in infrastructure development and maintenance. The intention was for MBL to take charge of AMF-related tasks.
Unexpected Withdrawal Sparks Tensions
According to sources within the CEO’s office, the conflict began when Mackintosh Burn unexpectedly withdrew from the agreement.
“After initial discussions, Mackintosh Burn management agreed to take up the AMF activities for the election booths. But to the surprise of the ECI and the CEO’s office, last week, the Mackintosh Burn management communicated to the CEO’s office about their inability to carry out the work,” a CEO’s office insider said.
The ECI did not take this reversal lightly. In response, the CEO’s office issued a renewed directive to Mackintosh Burn, invoking provisions under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. The directive instructed the agency to proceed with the agreed AMF responsibilities.
Legal Consequences Threatened
A fresh communique from the Additional Chief Electoral Officer was sent to the Director of Mackintosh Burn, urging the company to begin preparations for polling booth maintenance. The letter warned of potential legal repercussions, including criminal charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), should the entity fail to comply.
Silence from State Government and MBL
As of the time of reporting, neither the West Bengal government nor Mackintosh Burn’s leadership had issued any public response to the CEO’s latest communication. Both parties have remained silent on the matter.