The Calcutta High Court on Friday directed the Election Commission of India and the West Bengal government to file reports within a week on a public interest litigation alleging that a state-run company has abruptly pulled out of essential infrastructure work required for the upcoming assembly elections in the state.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen was hearing a PIL filed by West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, who claimed that the sudden withdrawal of Macintosh Burn Limited—a government undertaking—could disrupt the smooth conduct of the polls.
The bench noted that the Election Commission is vested with sufficient powers to ensure the provision of infrastructure necessary for conducting elections.
“Election Commission is within its powers to ensure that infrastructure facilities are done for the polls,” the court observed, making it clear that responsibility for enabling the polling process lies with the EC, even if a state PSU withdraws from assisting with the arrangements.
In his petition, Bhattacharya urged the court to intervene, arguing that the decision of Macintosh Burn Limited to disengage from poll-related infrastructural duties could have adverse consequences for the administration of the elections, which are due within the next few months.
Taking note of the urgency, the bench directed the Election Commission as well as the state government to file their responses within one week. The matter will be listed for hearing again thereafter.
