Kolkata/UNI: Ahead of July 8 Panchayat election across West Bengal, state Governor C V Ananda Bose on Thursday accused State Election Commissioner (SEC) Rajiva Sinha of failing in discharging his duties and reining in violence resulting in clashes and murders.

He told a media conference that he has already urged the poll panel chief to actively ensure that the people cast their vote free and fair manner during the three-tier panchayat poll in all 22 districts of the state.

"You are (the poll panel chief) the custodian of the lives of the people during the election. You are the repository of all powers to ensure free
and fair elections.

"The police, magistrate, and state machinery are under you during the elections. Then why this gruesome violence?" he asked.

The Governor reiterated that the SEC has failed in discharging his duty.

"Mr SEC (Rajiva Sinha) you must know who all are responsible for the lives lost. You are responsible for the corpses that fell on the streets. The poll panel chief must know what his duty is during the elections, " the Governor added.

"Bengal expects you to do your duty, " he maintained.