ECI Clarifies Udaynarayanpur Incident; Urges Public to Respect Facts and Avoid Misinformation

Agencies, May 1, 2026, Kolkata: A recent political claim by Abhishek Banerjee alleged that Central Forces operating under Amit Shah had acted as a “private army” of a political party, further linking them to the tragic death of an elderly voter in Udaynarayanpur.

However, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a detailed clarification, urging the public to rely on verified facts and not allow a personal tragedy to be misrepresented.

According to the ECI, the incident involved 82-year-old Purna Chandra Dolui from Howrah’s Penro area, who visited Booth No. 245 in Udaynarayanpur on April 29, 2026, accompanied by his son to cast his vote. Despite his frail condition, the elderly citizen exercised his democratic right with determination. His son was permitted inside the booth to assist him up to the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).

The Commission stated that shortly after casting his vote, Sri Dolui suddenly collapsed near the voting compartment due to age-related illness, suspected to be heat exhaustion. He was immediately taken to Amta Hospital, where he was declared brought dead.

The ECI further emphasized that its General Observer had clearly recorded the sequence of events: the collapse occurred after voting was completed, with his son present inside the booth. There was no manhandling, pushing, or involvement of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in the incident.

While acknowledging the difficult conditions under which CAPF personnel operate, the Commission noted that these forces continue to carry out their duties with professionalism and dedication, ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections across West Bengal. It stressed that such personnel deserve respect and gratitude rather than unverified allegations or politically motivated narratives.

In its statement, the ECI expressed deep concern over the misuse of the incident, saying it is “heartbreaking that a frail 82-year-old's natural passing — while bravely fulfilling his duty as a voter — is being exploited for political gain.” It appealed to all to maintain basic human decency and refrain from spreading unverified claims that could hurt the grieving family and dishonour the memory of the deceased.

The Commission concluded by urging citizens to uphold truth and dignity, stating that elders deserve respect in life and honesty in death. It extended condolences to the family of Purna Chandra Dolui and reaffirmed that democracy thrives on facts, not fear or misinformation.