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5mo ago

Himachal Poll Panel Orders Inquiry Into Bilaspur EVM Security Lapse

The machines are preserved for High Court election petitions from two Bilaspur seats, heightening scrutiny of custodial protocols.

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At the strong room of the Government Degree College, EVMs and ballot papers from two constituencies are stored in connection with an election petition pending before the high court. (File)

Overview

  • The State Election Commission directed a judicial inquiry led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, with a report requested within three days.
  • A surprise late‑Wednesday inspection by ASP Shiv Chaudhary found eight policemen absent from required standby duty at two EVM strong rooms.
  • SP Sandeep Dhawal suspended two head constables and six constables and initiated a departmental probe with the DSP (Leave Reserve) as investigating officer.
  • Officials said five Home Guard volunteers were on sentry duty and the premises remained secure, and a detailed report was sought from police headquarters in Shimla.
  • The stored EVMs relate to the Sri Naina Devi and Bilaspur (Sadar) constituencies tied to pending High Court cases, while former MLA Bamber Thakur alleged a conspiracy risk.