The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Saturday that repolling would take place in 11 booths of the Inner Manipur constituency, following incidents of violence at several polling stations during the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The repolling is scheduled for Monday, with voting set to occur from 7am to 5pm.
The decision came after reports of disruptions and violence on Friday during the polling process in various parts of the Inner Manipur constituency. In response, the ECI declared the polls conducted on April 19, 2024, in these 11 polling stations invalid and ordered fresh voting on April 22, 2024.
The booths where repolling will occur are Sajeb (A), Khurai Thongam Leikai, Bamon Kampu (North-A), Bamon Kampu (North-B), Bamon Kampu (South West), Bamon Kampu (South East), Khongman Zone-V (A), Irioshemba, Iroishemba Mamang Leikai, Iroishemba Mayai Lekai, and Khaidem Makha. The order was issued by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Manipur.
Manipur has experienced ongoing ethnic tensions since May last year, primarily involving clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. These tensions have led to significant violence, resulting in the deaths of more than 200 people and leaving many others displaced. The state continues to grapple with these issues, impacting the electoral process.
In light of the violence, the ECI’s decision to repoll in the 11 booths aims to ensure the integrity of the election and provide a fair voting opportunity for the electorate. The measures are intended to restore confidence in the electoral process and maintain peace during the upcoming phases of the elections.
Manipur’s two Lok Sabha constituencies, Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur, are scheduled to vote in different phases. The Outer Manipur constituency also participated in the first phase of the elections on Friday and will vote again in the second leg on April 26, due to the need to accommodate additional polling in light of the ongoing unrest.
The ECI and local authorities will implement strict security measures to prevent further violence and ensure a smooth and fair repolling process.
