The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc’s Manipur unit has conveyed their gratitude to the Election Commission of India for orchestrating a peaceful re-poll in the state, in response to their plea. In a press conference held at Congress Bhawan today, Kshetrimayum Shanta, Secretary of the INDIA bloc’s Manipur unit, highlighted the disturbances that marred the initial phase of the 18th Lok Sabha Election in the state. Incidents of violence compromised the integrity of the electoral process, necessitating the call for a re-poll to ensure fairness.
While expressing appreciation for the re-poll, Shanta voiced slight disappointment over the Election Commission’s decision to accept complaints for re-polling in only 11 out of the 47 polling stations requested. He stated that the bloc would have been more content if at least 20 polling stations had been approved for re-polling. Reflecting on yesterday’s re-poll, Shanta noted the peaceful and orderly conduct, emphasizing that citizens were able to exercise their voting rights without hindrance.
He articulated the hope that future electoral proceedings, including the upcoming second phase, would be conducted without violence, underscoring the importance of maintaining democratic norms and tranquility during elections. Shanta also remarked on the transformative impact witnessed during the 18th Lok Sabha election in Manipur, particularly highlighting the candidacy of Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, supported by the INDIA bloc. He noted a shift towards greater political awareness and conscious voting among the electorate, despite reports of inducements from rival candidates.