The court gave the direction while disposing of a petition by Janata Dal (United) seeking a CBI inquiry into the alleged printing of excess ballot papers for use in Bihar, particularly for Nalanda and Barh constituencies.

``Stern action, including suspension and dismissal, (should) be taken against officials indulging in corrupt electoral practices,'' said Justice B P Singh, who presided over the division bench.

Justice I P Singh asked petitioner Lalan Singh, national secretary of JD(U), to place his suggestions on conduct of fair polls before the EC to stop electoral malpractices.