THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, January 22: The Jharkhand High Court has ordered a complete ban on conducting any election-related activities at the Krishi Utpadan Bazar Samiti (Pandra Market Yard), including setting up of counting centres and strong rooms.
The order was passed while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed on behalf of the Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI). The case was heard by a division bench comprising Chief Justice M.S. Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar.
Repeated Violation of Earlier Orders
The court noted that despite clear directions issued in 2018 prohibiting vote counting at Pandra, the state government continued to use the market yard for election purposes. The bench observed that for the last six to seven years, the government had been delaying compliance on the pretext of finding an alternative venue.
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Contempt Action Avoided
The High Court observed that non-compliance with its orders amounts to contempt of court. However, considering the national importance of elections, the court refrained from initiating contempt proceedings, noting that such restraint was being seen as a weakness.
Alternative Locations to Be Used
The court directed the state government and the State Election Commission to conduct the election and vote-counting work at any of the five alternative locations already identified or at another suitable site.
The government had earlier informed the court that a building had been constructed at Nagdi for EVM storage. The bench remarked that if such a facility exists, it should be used for both EVM storage and vote counting.
The petitioner argued that election-related infrastructure at the market yard severely disrupts business activities. Shopkeepers and warehouse owners suffer financial losses during elections, making the site unsuitable for such purposes.
FJCCI Calls Verdict a Major Win
FJCCI President Aditya Malhotra welcomed the verdict, calling it a significant achievement after more than a decade of sustained efforts. He said the order would protect the interests of traders, warehouse owners, and the business community operating in the Pandra area.