ECI seeks panel of names for Mizoram CEO

Amid reports of Mizoram's chief electoral officer (CEO) SB Shashank's removal, the Election Commission of India (ECI) in a meeting on Saturday called for a panel of names for the post from the state Chief Secretary.

Earlier, ECI had constituted a high-level team led by Deputy Election Commissioner (DEC) Sudeep Jain to discuss various issues related to upcoming assembly polls in the state.

On Friday, the ECI rubbished the reports of Shashank's removal stating, "We will be assessing Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain's report in the matter who went to the poll-bound state."

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding Shashank's removal following the sacking of Principal Secretary (Home) L. Chuaungo.

Chuaungo had been removed following Shashank's complaint to the ECI about the interference of the state in the ensuing assembly elections. Shashank also brought to the notice of the commission of Chuaungo's alleged involvement in the revision of the electoral rolls and using the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

The people of Mizoram have been protesting against Shashank, alleging that he is biased in conducting the elections due on November 28. Results of the elections will be declared on December 11.