The Election Commission of India (ECI) replaced the Director General of Police in West Bengal within merely 24 hours on Tuesday. Vivek Sahay was designated as the replacement of his predecessor Rajeev Kumar, but was soon replaced by Sanjoy Mukherjee, a 1989-batch IPS officer currently heading the Fire and Emergency Services Department.
The ECI’s decision came after the removal of Rajeev Kumar, leading the state government to suggest three names for the replacement – Vivek Sahay, Sanjoy Mukherjee, and Rajesh Kumar. Despite Sahay being nominated based on seniority, Mukherjee was appointed to the position in a quick succession.
Sources indicate that Sahay is expected to retire in May when the last phase of polling in West Bengal is set to conclude on June 1. The commission’s move to replace Sahay with Mukherjee was likely to ensure continuity in the position throughout the duration of the polls, to avoid any potential disruptions due to bias allegations.
The decision to replace the Director General of Police was made to ensure smooth functioning during the upcoming elections in West Bengal, with a focus on maintaining neutrality and efficiency in the electoral process. The ECI’s swift action highlights the importance of impartiality and transparency in the conduct of elections, especially in a politically charged state like West Bengal.
