New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday reviewed poll preparedness with Central Observers and election officials ahead of Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry scheduled for April 9.
The meeting, led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, was attended virtually by 282 Central Observers - including General, Police and Expenditure Observers - along with the Chief Electoral Officers of the three regions. The Commission directed officials to ensure that elections are conducted in a "festive mood," and remain free, fair and free from intimidation, violence or inducements. The ECI stressed strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct and called for prompt action on complaints. Observers were instructed to publicise their contact details and hearing schedules to make the grievance redressal process accessible to the public, political parties and candidates.
They were also asked to monitor key procedural aspects, including proper training of Presiding Officers, timely uploading of two-hourly voter turnout data on ECINET, correct application of indelible ink, accurate filling of Form 17-C, sharing of documents with polling agents at the close of polls, and deletion of mock poll data.
To enhance voter convenience, the Commission directed officials to ensure minimum facilities at polling stations, including mobile phone deposit counters and seating arrangements in queues. Webcasting control rooms must be thoroughly checked and trial runs conducted with trained staff to identify and flag any issues.
Assembly elections across four states and one Union Territory will cover 824 constituencies, involving about 17.4 crore voters, 2.18 lakh polling stations and nearly 2.5 million polling personnel. The Model Code of Conduct is currently in force in poll-bound states. (IANS)
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