Needles to say that these incidence of arson has created panic amongst field level election officers. We are deeply concerned about these heinous acts. There are two sides to such incidents: first, they send wrong signals about the state of law and order under caretaker government. Second, as a fallout it may have a negative impact on the overall voters' turn-out and conduct of the entire electoral process. It has been rightly pointed out by a senior EC official that "It will be difficult for the local level officials to perform their duties if such incidents continue to take place".

We condemn such premeditated arson on the election offices. It should be understood by all concerned that no matter how strongly one may insist on a "correct" voter list and a "plain level field" for holding a credible election, such arson incidents may end up in making the entire election process vulnerable.

We, therefore, urge the caretaker government to take appropriate measures to stop recurrence of such incidents. Considering the nature of the arson it is our belief given the sincerity of purpose and commitment the matter can be effectively dealt with, particularly when the attacks don't appear to have been caused by any collective vandalism. These are some local goons that need to be sorted out thick and fast.