Kasargod: Teeka Ram Meena seeks report on ‘bogus voting’
Apart from fake voters, booth agents also will face action.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena on Saturday sought report from the collectors of Kannur and Kasargod who are the returning officers of the two districts respectively, in connection with the allegations of bogus votes.
The CEO said that there are reports about bogus voting in one or two places. "Allegations of bogus vote have been reported. We have taken cognizance of these reports. The returning officers and presiding officers have been asked to submit factual report about these incidents at the earliest," he added.
Mr Meena said if the allegations are found to be true then it is a serious offence. Apart from the person who cast bogus vote, the polling agents will also face action for aiding and abetting the crime.
On the basis of the reports received from the collectors and presiding officers, the CEO can direct the police to register cases. The video recording and footage from the live webcast would be examined. If the charge of bogus vote is found to be true, the offender will be booked for non-bailable offence. Cases will be registered under the People's Representation Act 1950 and the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
The cases will be registered for bogus vote, impersonation and producing fake document. If found guilty, the accused will be liable to get imprisonment up to two years and fine.