EC removes Nadia DM for ‘meeting’ Buddhadeb

THE Election Commission today removed Nadia district magistrate and returning officer Krishna Gupta for violating the model code of conduct as he was with CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharya during his visit to campaign for by-election to the Nabadwip Lok Sabha seat.

According to Chief Electoral Officer S.N. Haque, Opposition parties had complained about Gupta’s calling on the CM at Krishnanagar Circuit House. When Haque sought an explanation from Gupta, he ‘‘explained that it was a courtesy call’’. But this didn’t satisfy the EC and Gupta was ordered out till June 16 when the poll process is expected to be completed. Nabadwip parliamentary seat is going to a bypoll on June 8 following the death of Trinamool MP A.M. Biswas.

While senior additional district magistrate K.K. Paul would officiate as DM, a former CEO and Presidency Range divisional commissioner S.K. Magan was made returning officer for the district.

The EC action came as a virtual snub for the ruling CPI(M)-led LF coalition, involving none other than the CM. It also coincided with the beginning of party’s Politburo meet here today. ‘‘We have no problem. Whoever becomes the RO, we’re confident that poll would be held democratically,’’ said Anil Biswas, state CPI(M) secretary and Politburo member. However, the CM refused to comment.