New Delhi : The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday asked Mizoram government to send two more names for the post of the state’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). Mizoram Chief Secretary had nominated three names – Lalhmingthanga, H Lalengmawia and K Lalthawmmawia, on Sunday.
There has been no decision regarding the removal of incumbent CEO SB Shashank. The ECI will only appoint someone as CEO if he or she is capable of conducting a ‘free, fair and peaceful election’, an official of the apex poll body had earlier said.
Meanwhile, Shashank will also be meeting top ECI officials for briefing them on the poll preparedness in the state.
“The Commission will again be meeting SB Shashank to know what exactly the level is of preparedness and what should be done in Mizoram because the new incumbent will have very little time to deliver polls in the hill state,” said the official.
“It will be crucial to know the important inputs that should be given to the new person if he or she is appointed the next CEO of Mizoram,” he added.
The ECI had earlier sent a high-level team, led by Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, to hold further talks with NGO Coordination Committee, who demanded the removal of CEO Shashank.
Earlier, Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding Shashank’s removal following the sacking of Principal Secretary (Home) L Chuaungo.
Shashank had complained to the ECI about the state government’s interference in the ensuing elections. Shashank also brought to the notice of the commission of Chuaungo’s alleged involvement in the revision of the electoral rolls and using the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
The people of Mizoram have been protesting against Shashank, alleging that he is biased in conducting the elections due on November 28. Results of the elections will be declared on December 11.
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]