Kolkata: The Supreme Court of India on Saturday chose not to intervene in a petition filed by the Trinamool Congress challenging the appointment of Central government personnel as counting supervisors for the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections 2026.
A Bench comprising Justice P S Narasimha and Justice Joymalya Bagchi noted that the Election Commission of India had assured compliance with its April 13 circular, which outlines guidelines for deploying counting staff. Recording this assurance, the court stated that no further directions were required.
The poll panel’s circular allows flexibility in selecting counting personnel from both Central and state government services. The Bench observed that the Commission has the authority to decide the composition of staff and that such discretion cannot be deemed unlawful under existing rules.
During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the TMC, argued that excluding state government officials raised concerns about fairness and transparency. He questioned the timing and basis of the decision, suggesting it lacked adequate disclosure.
However, counsel for the Election Commission maintained that established procedures were being followed and emphasized that representatives of contesting candidates would be present during counting, ensuring oversight.
The dispute had earlier been dismissed by the Calcutta High Court, which upheld the Commission’s authority to appoint personnel from either category. The High Court had also ruled that apprehensions of bias alone were insufficient grounds to halt or alter the process.
Polling for the 294-seat Assembly concluded in two phases last month, and vote counting is scheduled for May 4. The outcome is expected to determine the political direction of the state, particularly in key southern districts.
