Louis the Fourteenth, King of France is known for his famous quote 'État, c'est Moi!’ (I am The State!). This quotation is becoming more and more contested by historians because his reign was marked by huge steps in public rights. During his reign he imposed more restrictions on the people. Likewise the Chief Minister of W Bengal is quoting “ I am the State” by disobeying Election Commission’s order to transfer officials on election duty. The Commission has removed seven of the election officials, including two additional district magistrates from their post but the CM is hesitant to comply.
As regards the posting of the poll officers and their shifting, the power is vested with the Commission and the only option for Mamta is to obey the Commission order. Mamta has no right to challenge the Commission. Her statement:"Put me in jail. I will not remove a single officer as chief minister" is akin to King Louis XIV quote. Mamta should understand that after announcement of election, all election officers and police officers under the Representation of the People Act come under the superintendence, direction and control of the Election Commission and not under the Chief Minitster.
Mamta Banerji’s stand is unwarranted and hence punishable under the Representation of the People Act. What Mamta said is against the Constitution as she is “not the State”.
K A Solaman
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