Lok Sabha Elections 2024: After gunfire on 19th repolling commences for inner Manipur constituency 11 polling stations

Repolling is currently underway at 11 polling booths in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency in Manipur. This decision was made by the election commission after declaring the voting that took place on Friday as null and void due to incidents of violence, including gunfire and clashes.

The repolling was officially announced by the chief electoral officer on Saturday for April 22. The affected polling stations where the repolling is being conducted include Moirangkampu Sajeb and Thongam Leikai in the Khurai constituency, four in Kshetrigao, one in Thongju in Imphal East district, three in Uripok, and one in Konthoujam in Imphal West district.

Violence and Irregularities During Friday's Polling

The initial polling on Friday saw various disturbances, including gunfire, clashes, intimidation, and the destruction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at some polling booths. These incidents occurred against the backdrop of conflict in Manipur. Despite these challenges, the voter turnout in the two Lok Sabha constituencies—Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur—reached 72 percent.

Demand for Repolling by Congress

The Congress party, responding to the irregularities, demanded repolling in 47 polling stations. They alleged that several booths were captured, and the elections were rigged. Manipur Congress president K Meghachandra stated that the party lodged a formal complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer, specifically requesting repolling in 36 polling stations in the Inner Manipur constituency and 11 in the Outer Manipur constituency.